In the Many Glacier section of Glacier National Park there are lots of hikes to lakes, waterfalls, mountain tops, and even glaciers. The hikes are long and steep, but we’ll be doing what’s considered a gentle family-friendly hike to Redrock Falls. Walking 3.6 miles round-trip with only a 230 ft. elevation gain. We can do this–and oh, the views. It sure looks and even feels like rain, but the forecast says no, so here’s hoping.
We cross the bridge over Wilbur Creek and see Grinnell Point, the far eastern edge of Mount Grinnell massif.
Our hike is 1.8 miles to Redrock Falls on Swiftcurrent Pass Trail. This trail continues beyond the falls another 13 miles with “only” 3,713 ft. elevation gain. It connects to Highline Trail near the Visitor Center on Going-to-the-Sun Road. Good news–you can take a side trip up Swiftcurrent Mountain where they say the views are more than spectacular! It only adds 1.4 miles to the trip BUT adds over 1,200 ft. UP. You know, this place really makes me feel like a wimp, but the good news? We still see pretty spectacular views lower down too 😉. Well, we have a falls to see, let’s go.
We are walking through mainly fir and spruce trees, but there are some Ponderosa and Lodgepole pines. Ah, a wide-open view looking at Mount Wilbur in the foreground and Iceberg Peak behind.
We have some aspens too. It is surprising that here it is mid-September and the leaves are still green. Usually by now they are more colorful. Every autumn brings surprises.
This stand of mushrooms was about two feet long. Certainly catches your attention right next to the trail. I’m still trying to figure out its name; any ideas?
Well, here you go, two glaciers. The white at right and far right. Yes, they are shrinking but there are many more smallish glaciers all around the park. Can you see the waterfall? That white line to the right just above the lake? We still have a ways to go. That mountain peak ahead is Swiftcurrent Mountain. As with many mountains in Glacier it stands between 8,000 and 9,000 feet but looks so much bigger. The long steep drops into deep valleys makes heights deceiving. I love it!
Zoomed in and looks like we may have a bit of rock scrambling to attempt by the falls. It is also clear why it’s called Redrock Falls. These red rocks are part of the Grinnell Formation and are over a billion years old. I may have to step on those rocks with a bit more respect.
The red rocks seem to be taking over. The falls is close, we can hear it.
Wow, doesn’t look anything like what we saw from afar. Maybe that part is at the upper right?
The cascades all around and down through the rocks is a bit unusual. This must be amazing during spring runoff.
Well, I climbed over some large rocks and scrambled across smaller ones. This is as close as I can get and still can’t see much of this larger falls drop. At my age, I don’t do totally stupid things, so back down we go. You know, I think it is getting darker out here.
Heading back, the clouds are dropping over Mount Wilbur. We have well over a mile to reach the SUV. Will we beat the rain/snow?
Nope, a gentle but soaking rain for over a mile, but no snow. Also had a fleece vest under the raincoat so camera is safe. Rain or not, there is nothing like the landscapes in Glacier National Park! Not to mention the waterfalls!!
Until next time my friend . . .
