Dawson–Pitamakan Pass Loop

Overview

This is Glacier’s grand tour of Two Medicine: an approximately 18–19 mile loop (commonly listed around 18.8 miles total) that links Dawson Pass (about 7,600 feet) and Pitamakan Pass (about 8,138 feet). Expect roughly 3,700–4,000 feet of climbing, long ridge time, and world-class scenery. It’s a strenuous full-day push for fit hikers or a superb 1–2 night backpack using designated camps at No Name Lake and Old Man Lake.

Route and Direction

Start from the North Shore Trailhead in the Two Medicine area. Many hikers go clockwise: follow the north shore of Two Medicine Lake (nearly flat for the first few miles) toward the Dawson Pass Trail, climb through Bighorn Basin to Dawson Pass, then traverse along the west side of the Continental Divide to the Pitamakan Overlook, curve around Mount Morgan to Pitamakan Pass, and descend the Dry Fork valley around the east end of Rising Wolf Mountain back to the lake. Counterclockwise offers a gentler warm-up up Dry Fork but saves the big views for later. The high traverse is airy for some but stays on a maintained path.

Scenery and What to Look For

You’ll stitch together turquoise lakes (Two Medicine, No Name, Old Man), wildflower meadows with summer beargrass and paintbrush, and an extended Divide walk with nonstop looks to the Lewis Range. Keep an eye out for classic glacial features—U-shaped valleys, cirques, and overdeepened lake basins are on full display beneath the passes. Peaks you’ll see include Mount Helen, Flinsch Peak, Mount Morgan, and Rising Wolf Mountain.

Wildlife and Safety

This is prime grizzly country. Carry bear spray, make noise in brushy sections, and give all wildlife ample space. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats are frequently spotted near the high traverses; moose are possible in valley ponds. Winds on both passes can be fierce, and weather changes fast—pack wind and rain layers and something warm even on sunny mornings. Cell service is unreliable; download maps for offline use.

Logistics, Permits, and Shortcuts

The loop typically takes 9–12 hours as a day hike. Start at first light—afternoon winds and storms are common on ridges. A seasonal boat across Two Medicine Lake can shorten the approach to the Dawson Pass Trail and is also handy for a Dawson Pass out-and-back; just know first departures are later in the morning and missing the last return means walking the shoreline. For overnights, designated backcountry camps at No Name Lake and Old Man Lake require a backcountry permit and are competitive. In recent seasons, the Two Medicine area has used timed-entry reservations during summer daytime hours; check current rules before you go. Pets are not permitted on park trails.

Water, Season, and Best Times

Reliable water is available before the climb to Dawson Pass and again at Old Man Lake, but there’s little to none along the high traverse—carry enough and treat what you collect. Snow and ice can linger on the high sections well into summer, and this is not a winter route. Aim for mid-summer to early fall; start early for calmer winds, cooler temps, and the best chance to beat afternoon weather. August can bring regional wildfire smoke that dings views and air quality.

Who Will Love It (and Who Won’t)

If you love long alpine days with constant horizon-to-horizon views, this loop is a standout. The downsides: notorious wind, long descents that can pound knees, and logistics if you’re juggling boats or timed-entry windows. If you want similar wow with less commitment, consider a Dawson Pass out-and-back using the boat to trim miles.