Hike to Alberta Falls
What to Expect
Safety Advisory
The rocks near the base of the falls are perpetually wet and deceptively slick — multiple visitors are injured here every year from scrambling too close. Stay behind the guardrails, especially with kids.
You're starting above 9,200 feet. If you just drove up from Denver, even this gentle walk can leave you winded. Take it slow and hydrate before you start — altitude sickness doesn't care how short the trail is.
Trail Details
Pro Tips
Arrive before 8 a.m. to snag parking at Glacier Gorge Trailhead without a timed entry reservation — the lot fills by 9 most summer mornings, and after that you'll need the Bear Lake Road reservation.
Start from Bear Lake Trailhead instead of Glacier Gorge if the lower lot is full. It adds about half a mile each way but the connector trail passes through some of the prettiest aspen groves in the park — worth it in late September when the gold is peak.
The best photo angle is from the rocks on the south side of the falls where you can catch the full cascade with Hallett Peak framed behind it. Morning light hits the falls directly, but overcast days actually produce richer color in the spray.
Photos
NPS
