South Swiftcurrent Glacier Falls

South Swiftcurrent Glacier Falls is found at the headwaters of Swiftcurrent Creek on the northwest flank of Mount Grinnell in Glacier National Park. The falls consist of two to three independent melt streams which originate from various lobes of the South Swiftcurrent Glacier, and converge with one another approximatley halfway down the 1,220 foot tall waterfall. The majority of the falls' height is attributed to the initial drop, a steep stair-step like cascade of about 950 feet. After cascading about 50 vertical feet down a section of talus, the lower step of the falls then plunges another 200 feet over a lower cliff band. Unlike the neighboring North Swiftcurrent Glacier, the South Swiftcurrent Glacier is one of the healthier glaciers remaining within Glacier National Park. Though still retreating, the rate of melt is considerably slower thanks to its position on the north side of the ridge making up the continental divide. This will allow the falls to flow more consistently throughout the summer months thanks to a more naturally regulated stream flow - at least for the immediate future. The falls can be seen from the Swiftcurrent Pass trail between Bullhead Lake and Swiftcurrent Pass.