Explore Raven Quiver Falls: A Montana Hiking Adventure

Raven Quiver Falls is a secluded paradise in Glacier National Park you don’t want to miss. It starts at the peaceful Sue Lake, set among mountains and glaciers. The falls are beautiful and fed by glacier water. However, getting there requires a long hike through the wilderness and a permit from the National Park Service.

I will guide you on the challenging paths to Raven Quiver Falls. This includes the path to Cosley Lake, a side trip up Bear Mountain Trail for stunning views, and the final stretch through a dramatic landscape to the falls. Each part of the journey offers different sights, from big valleys to steep, rocky paths.

Interested in hiking where every step shows something new and you can hear water flowing? Follow along as we go to Raven Quiver Falls, a spot that truly shows Montana’s untouched and wild beauty.

6 Key Takeaways on Raven Quiver Falls

  1. Raven Quiver Falls is a quiet and clean waterfall in Glacier National Park filled with glacier waters.
  2. Reaching Raven Quiver Falls involves a demanding multi-day hike through the backcountry. The trail starts at Sue Lake and the Chief Mountain Customs Trailhead.
  3. To visit Raven Quiver Falls, hikers must obtain camping permits from the National Park Service to ensure the area’s preservation and protection.
  4. The trail to Raven Quiver Falls is physically demanding and offers breathtaking stops like Cosley Lake. You also have the option to explore Bear Mountain Trail and Stoney Indian Pass Trail.
  5. A healthy population of grizzly bears and other wildlife is present in the Raven Quiver Falls area. This emphasizes the need for hikers to be cautious and follow safety guidelines.
  6. Near Raven Quiver Falls, you can stay at the rustic Glacier Elkhorn Cabins and Campground. Additionally, you can opt for the more developed accommodations in the St. Mary area.

About Raven Quiver Falls

Location CoordinatesElevationNearby AttractionsLocation
48.86556°N 113.84722°W7,129 feet (2,173 meters)Sue Lake, Cosley Lake, Stoney Indian Lake, and Mokowanis LakeGlacier National Park, Glacier County, Montana

Raven Quiver Falls is a stunning waterfall in Glacier National Park, Montana. It flows down from high mountains, making it a top spot for visitors who want to see natural beauty.

This beautiful fall is in a secluded part of the park, starting at Sue Lake. The lake is fed by Shepard Glacier, which begins the Mokowanis River. Your adventure starts here, surrounded by stunning mountains like Mount Kipp, Cathedral Peak, and Pyramid Peak.

Reaching Raven Quiver Falls involves a challenging multi-day hike from Chief Mountain Customs Trail Head. The 26.6-mile trail requires hikers to obtain camping permits from the National Park Service to help preserve and protect the remote area.

When you hike, be careful of the wildlife, especially grizzly bears, around Raven Quiver Falls. Hikers should be extra cautious and follow all safety rules. This will keep you and the bears safe so everyone can enjoy the area without problems.

Hiking Trails Near Raven Quiver Falls

Hiking to Raven Quiver Falls lets you see the beautiful wilds of Montana. The paths offer great views of the stunning waterfall.

The main starting point for these hikes is the Chief Mountain Customs Trailhead. From here, you can choose from several trails that take you through the quiet, untouched wilderness of Glacier National Park.

1. Cosley Lake

Cosley lake with rugged mountains in the distance, surrounded by dense forests under a cloudy sky.
source: wikimedia.org

The hike to Raven Quiver Falls includes great spots like Cosley Lake. This beautiful lake is also a good place to rest. As you walk to the falls, you first reach the campground. This stop is key for enjoying the scenery and getting ready for the rest of your hike.

During the hike to Raven Quiver Falls, you’ll go up 250 feet for over 6.7 miles. While challenging, the hike offers beautiful views. After that, the trail takes you through the Belly River Valley to the Gable Pass Campground. This part of the path is easier, letting you rest before continuing.

Cosley Lake, only 2 miles from Gable Pass, is a must-see. It offers a peaceful setting and a highly recommended campsite if you spend the night.

2. Bear Mountain Trail

Bear Mountain Trail with white wildflowers in bloom with patches of snow under a partly cloudy sky in Montana.

Bear Mountain Trail is a side path in Glacier National Park. It takes you to Bear Mountain Observation Point, where you can see beautiful views of Montana.

The Bear Mountain trailhead is half a mile northeast of Cosley Lake. You can get there from the Stoney Indian Pass Trail, which is 1.7 miles long and goes up 1,358 feet. The path’s zigzag patterns make the climb easier.

The view from the Bear Mountain Trailhead observation point is amazing. You can see the bright blue Cosley Lake, the big Mokowanis River Valley, and the tall Cathedral Mountain. Cosley Lake’s blue color comes from the Whitecrow Glacier, which feeds the lake and looks beautiful from afar.

Hiking to Bear Mountain Observation Point is hard but rewarding. Local hikers on the Stoney Indian Pass Trail call it a “must-do” because the view is unforgettable.

3. Stoney Indian Pass Trail

Stoney Indian Pass Trail with a serene mountain lake with clear water surrounded by lush green foliage and towering peaks under a clear blue sky.
source: flickr.com

The trip to Raven Quiver Falls takes you through Montana’s nature on the Stoney Indian Pass Trail. This trail is almost 15 miles long, giving hikers beauty and a challenge they’ll remember.

On your hike to Raven Quiver, you’ll pass Glenns Lake, a calm area with Glenns Lake Foot and Glenns Lake Head campsites. From this point, there’s another 3-mile stretch to Mokowanis Lake, known for its beautiful views near Pyramid Peak.

The tough part of the hike starts after the lake at Mokowanis Junction. The trail gets steep and more challenging, but the beautiful views of Glacier National Park make it all worth it.

If you love photography, this trail is a great treat. It leads to three beautiful waterfalls: Pieta Falls, Raven Quiver Falls, and Atsina Falls. Huge rocks surround each one, and it is perfect for taking photos.

The adventure doesn’t end at the waterfalls. Hikers can keep going to Stoney Indian Lake. This spot is great for resting and has a campsite for those who want to stay longer in the wild. Many hikers turn around here and return the same way to the Chief Mountain Customs trailhead.

The trail goes on to Ghost Haunt Ranger Station for those who want a longer hike. It adds another 10 miles for you to explore, which is great for adventurous explorers.

Camp or Lodge Near Raven Quiver Falls

Wooden cabins nestled among tall pine trees in a peaceful forest setting in Montana, with a small path leading up to the cabins.

When planning your trip to Raven Quiver Falls, you have several great choices for places to stay. Let’s explore the accommodations near this stunning location.

Glacier Elkhorn Cabins and Campground is the closest place to stay near the falls. It offers cozy cabins and places for traditional camping, including spots that fit most RVs.

St. Mary area is a good choice if you’re looking for a place with more facilities. It’s not just close to the falls, but it’s also a busy area with many options for everyone.

It’s convenient for hikers who need backcountry permits because there’s a Park Ranger office there. In St. Mary, you can find different places to stay, from cozy cabins to classic motor inns.

Some of the places you can stay in when traveling to Raven Quiver Falls include:

  • Rising Sun Motor Inn
  • Heart of Glacier RV Park and Cabins
  • The Cottages at Glacier
  • Johnsons Campground
  • Mary Village

St. Mary has many places to eat, so you can grab a meal and relax after exploring. Whether you like camping under the stars or staying in a cabin or inn, the area around Raven Quiver Falls has options.

Raven Quiver Falls Final Thoughts

A peaceful mountain stream flows over rocks, with bright purple wildflowers in front and green plants around it.
source: flickr.com

Raven Quiver Falls is a piece of paradise in Montana, offering a refreshing break for those looking for one. Hidden in the heart of Glacier County, this natural wonder highlights Montana’s untouched beauty.

Close to the famous Glacier National Park, this place is a must-see for anyone visiting Montana. It shows off the clean, untouched nature that makes Big Sky Country special.

When you reach the Raven Quiver Falls, enjoy the beauty and calm of the area. It’s a paradise that will stick with you long after you leave, reminding you of the beauty of Montana.

Raven Quiver Falls FAQs

1. How Do I Get to Raven Quiver Falls?

To reach Raven Quiver Falls, visitors must go on a multi-day backcountry adventure, starting from the Chief Mountain Customs Trail Head off Highway 17 in Glacier National Park.

2. Is Camping Available Near Raven Quiver Falls?

Yes, camping is available near Raven Quiver Falls. Cosley Lake Campground offers a recommended camping site along the trail, providing a convenient resting point for hikers.

St. Mary area of the Park also offers established campgrounds and lodging options for those seeking more comfortable accommodations.

3. Are There Any Safety Concerns When Hiking to Raven Quiver Falls?

Hiking to Raven Quiver Falls presents various safety considerations. This includes its challenging terrain, remote location, and the presence of grizzly bears in the area.

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Written by:

Ashley Smith
Hello there! I'm Ashley Smith, born on a chilly winter's day, Montana has been my playground since childhood. The first snowfall of the year always brings back memories of building snowmen and winter hikes. Co-founding PocketMontana.com was my way of sharing the magic of Montana's seasons with the world. While Chris dives deep into the landscapes, I'm obsessed with Montana's rich culture, from the local festivals to the tales passed down generations.

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