Beaver Chief Falls drops 1,125 feet in four tiers on Lincoln Creek in Glacier National Park, Montana, falling from the hanging valley of Lake Ellen Wilson down to Lincoln Lake in Flathead County. Both viewpoints lie deep in the backcountry.
The falls
Lincoln Creek leaves Lake Ellen Wilson and plunges down the headwall in four tiers in quick succession. A lidar measurement puts the total drop at 1,125 feet. The water splits into two channels partway down and rejoins lower on the cliff, which gave the falls one of its older names, Diamond Falls.
Getting there
The classic view is from Lincoln Lake, below the falls. The Lincoln Lake Trail starts at a parking area on Going-to-the-Sun Road between Apgar and Lake McDonald Lodge; the National Park Service lists it at 8 miles one way, gaining 2,250 feet and dropping 800 feet on the way in, making the round trip about 16 miles.
The falls can also be seen from above at Lake Ellen Wilson. The route climbs 6.3 miles and 3,432 feet from Lake McDonald Lodge to Sperry Chalet, then continues about 3 miles to the lake. Both trips are usually done as overnights; camping at Lincoln Lake or Lake Ellen Wilson requires a wilderness permit.
Summer admission to Glacier is $35 per vehicle for seven days, plus $100 per person for non-US residents aged 16 and older unless they hold an Annual or America the Beautiful Pass. No vehicle reservation is required in 2026.
When to go
Snowmelt keeps the falls strongest in early summer, but plan the trip for midsummer, once the trails are clear of snow. Early in the season, expect lingering snow and cold, fast stream crossings; in autumn the chance of snow rises. Check the park's trail status page for bear and fire closures before setting out.
On site
Trail access to the base is not documented. This is grizzly country: carry bear spray, hike in a group and store food as the park requires. Cell service is limited or absent. Dogs are not allowed on park trails.
History and name
Before 1940 the falls went by several names, including Lincoln Falls, Diamond Falls and Little Saint Mary Falls. Beaver Chief Falls became the official name in January 1940.
Nearby
Feather Woman Falls is about 1.4 miles away, Akaiyan Falls about 1.7 miles, and Harrison Basin Falls about 2.7 miles.
Distances are straight-line.