St. Mary & Virginia Falls Trail

Date Hiked: July 7th 2024

WARNING: Parking for this hike is VERY limited, but you can shuttle from one of the many stops along the Going to the Sun Road.

We started this hike in the early afternoon so the sun was OUT and there was very little tree coverage in the valley. We began the hike going downhill into the valley and quickly came upon the first waterfall. There were people swimming in the lake below the bridge and we debated jumping in because of how hot it was! I later found out that with lakes like this one, many people don't realize that there are currents that can quickly take you out or under. Definitely made me think twice about jumping in certain lakes in the park.

After passing the first waterfall, we entered into more tree coverage which was a nice relief from all the sun. We proceeded to go up in incline to the second waterfall and this one was a STUNNER. The wind was definitely blowing stronger at the second waterfall so the layers we had shed quickly went back on as we turned around to head back. The most difficult part of the trail was the final stretch uphill, out of the valley, and to the parking lot. With the afternoon sun on full blast we were ready for our cold cocktails! Beautiful hike and highly recommend for beginners. Link to more trail info