Hike to Baring Falls: Short and Scenic

If you’re short on time or just want an easy stroll to a scenic waterfall, Baring Falls is the perfect hike. Located just off the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, this short 0.7-mile trail delivers a scenic waterfall with minimal effort.

An Easy Hike to a Scenic Waterfall

The trail to Baring Falls is a gentle walk that leads you into a gorge carved by water. The trail is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors, including families with kids or anyone looking for a shorter outing.

I visited Baring Falls during Memorial Day weekend, right in the middle of spring runoff. The falls were absolutely roaring fed by a full Baring Creek swollen with meltwater from the surrounding peaks. When I reached the base of the waterfall, the mist coming off the falls was refreshing, especially on what turned out to be an unusually warm spring day in the park.

Pro Tips for Visiting

If you’re planning to visit Baring Falls during the summer, keep in mind this is a very popular area, and parking can be the biggest challenge. The lots near the trailhead fill up quickly. I’d recommend one of two options:

• Arrive early in the morning before the crowds roll in.
• Take advantage of Montana’s long summer evenings and hike in the late afternoon or early evening, when the light is soft and the crowds thin out.

Because I went in late spring, parking wasn’t an issue, and the trail wasn’t overly busy. But I’ve seen how packed this area can get once the Going-to-the-Sun Road fully opens and the summer season hits its peak.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a short, scenic hike with a waterfall payoff, Baring Falls is a great choice. It’s a wonderful introduction to the kind of beauty Glacier National Park offers and can easily be combined with other nearby hikes like Saint Mary Falls or Virginia Falls if you’re feeling up for a longer adventure.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or just want a peaceful nature break, don’t skip this quick gem tucked right off one of Glacier’s most iconic roads.