Upper Two Medicine Lake

Overview

Upper Two Medicine Lake is a classic Two Medicine outing with big-water views, dramatic peaks, and frequent wildlife sightings. The most popular approach follows the North Shore via the Dawson Pass Trail to the Upper Two Medicine Trail for about 9.3 miles round trip (total) with roughly 813 feet of gain. Expect a moderate grade, varied forest-and-meadow walking, and a rewarding shoreline at the lake.

Route options

• North Shore out-and-back (most common): ~9.3 miles round trip, ~813 feet gain. A steady, moderate hike with broad lake and peak views.
• South Shore out-and-back: ~11.5 miles round trip, ~1,036 feet gain. Slightly longer with a few steeper stretches and occasional mud.
• Boat-assisted option: Take the concession boat across Two Medicine Lake to shorten the hike to roughly 2.2 miles one way to the lake with about 350 feet of gain. If you choose the boat, build your day around the last return trip.

Many hikers add the short spur to Twin Falls near the west end of Two Medicine Lake before continuing to Upper Two Medicine.

What you’ll see

The lake sits in a glacially carved basin beneath summits like Mount Helen, Pumpelly Pillar, and Lone Walker Mountain. Around Two Medicine you’ll walk over ancient sedimentary layers of the Belt Supergroup—hard quartzites, resistant limestones, and colorful red/green argillites shaped by uplift and later polished by ice. The region’s signature geology comes from the Lewis Overthrust, where older, harder rocks were pushed over younger layers, and you may notice dark intrusive bands in places where molten rock once wedged between sedimentary layers. In season, look for wildflowers in the meadows and keep an eye out for moose and bears along the lakeshore and wetlands.

Conditions, bugs, and logistics

This is a great east-side alternative when other parts of the park feel crowded, but it’s not without quirks: mosquitoes can be intense, sections can be muddy, and parts of the tread may feel narrow or overgrown. Cell service is unreliable—download offline maps before you go. If you’re using the boat, confirm the day’s schedule and give yourself a buffer for the last return.

Best time to hike

Two Medicine trails can be wet and muddy in May–June, with lingering snow and higher, trickier crossings early season. July generally brings drier lower trails, though snow can still hang on in spots. August is prime for clear tread and stable water levels, but watch for fast-moving thunderstorms. September often offers crisp days and fewer bugs, though early snow is possible and bears are especially active. This is not a winter hike.

Backpacking notes

There’s a backcountry campground at Upper Two Medicine Lake for those planning an overnight. Backcountry permits are required; check current regulations and availability.

Bottom line

If you like big scenery without the biggest crowds, this is a strong pick. The boat option lets you tailor mileage to your group, and the North Shore route delivers a satisfyingly scenic out-and-back without excessive elevation.