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This trail may be short, but it packs a beautiful punch.
Key Points
- Located in Glacier National Park, the Redrock Falls Trail is an easy 3.8-mile round-trip hike that takes in mountain scenery, alpine lakes, and a striking waterfall.
- The trail begins in Many Glacier, requires minimal gear, and offers opportunities to spot bears, moose, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.
- Late spring and early fall are recommended times to tackle the hike with fewer crowds and excellent wildlife viewing, while the peak summer season offers broader park access.
On the east side of Glacier National Park on a cloudless day, I stand at the foot of a fast-moving cascade, watching crystal-clear water flow over smooth red stones. Beads of water spray into the air, catching the sunlight and casting rainbows across the surface of the falls. And it’s not just the waterfall that’s dazzling me—there are alpine lakes and towering mountain peaks all around me. One of the best things about this place, though? I didn’t have to hike dozens of miles into the wilderness to see such a pristinely beautiful spot.
Instead of a days-long trek, the trail to the aptly named Redrock Falls runs less than four miles long, round trip. Since hundreds of trail miles crisscross Glacier National Park, you might understandably overlook this comparatively short hike on a map or guide. But in my opinion, Redrock Falls wraps some of the park’s most incredible scenery into one easily walkable package. I’ve visited more than 30 national parks in the U.S. and hiked more than 3,000 miles of trails across the country (including the Appalachian Trail), and Redrock Falls easily delivers the most spectacular sights for the least amount of work.
You’ll start your hike at the Swiftcurrent Trailhead, at the parking lot of the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn & Cabins in the Many Glacier Valley. The views of the craggy Lewis Range peaks are impressive enough right from the parking lot, but you’ll have even more to see as you walk into the dense tree canopy, following the shorelines of Fishercap and Redrock Lakes. Stop for pictures of the two lakes and mountains as you walk, but don’t dawdle too long—you’ll want plenty of time to experience the main attraction.
With a little bit of creative rock-hopping along Redrock Lake’s shore, you can reach the base of the falls themselves. At less than 20 feet in height, it’s not the tallest cascade in Glacier, nor the most powerful. But between the striking red rock terraces and rugged surroundings, it may just be one of the most stunning sights in the park.
When you’re done soaking up the views, you’re just a short walk away from your car. Or, you can set out on one of the many other nearby hikes, like Ptarmigan Falls and Swiftcurrent Pass, to extend your time on Glacier’s trails.
Here’s what you need to know before hiking the Redrock Falls Trail in Glacier National Park.
Know Before You Go
Since the hike to Redrock Falls is just a few miles in length across mostly flat and soft ground, you won’t need any technical gear. Just a pair of comfortable sneakers (or hiking sandals if you plan to dip your feet), sunscreen, binoculars, and a good camera will be enough to get you to the falls. Oh, and don’t forget your bear spray—Glacier National Park is home to thriving populations of both grizzly and black bears.
The bears won’t be your only company out on the trail. Since Glacier National Park is one of the most popular parks in the country, you’re not likely to get Redrock Falls to yourself, especially on a sunny day. Bring a little bit of patience and willingness to share the trail with other hikers, and you’re sure to enjoy your visit.
As for food, I’d recommend packing a picnic (perhaps from ‘Nell’s at Swiftcurrent Restaurant, open seasonally) and planning to stick around for a little while. Beyond admiring the falls, you can watch for wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep picking their way across the peaks around you.
Best Time to Visit
I’m a dedicated off-season visitor to any national park, so personally, I’d suggest visiting in early fall or late spring. Most roads on the east and west sides of the park are open, and while you might not be totally alone on the trails, at least you won’t have to contend with peak-season crowds.
Late spring is also an ideal time for wildlife viewing. Before the park fully opens for the summer months, black bears, mountain goats, and moose tend to roam around more freely. I visited in May and saw countless critters that I probably wouldn’t have spotted during the busiest times of the year.
It’s worth noting, though, that much of Glacier National Park is only open from June through September. More specifically, the famed Going-to-the-Sun Road, which winds across the mountain passes and cliffs of Glacier’s interior, typically opens to drivers between late June and early October (and requires reservations in advance). So, if that’s on your must-do list, you may want to save your visit for summer. Just try to time your hike during early mornings or weekdays if you still want to avoid the worst of the crowds.
Read the original article on Travel & Leisure
