The Sunrift Gorge and Baring Falls Trail in Glacier National Park can both be accessed from the Going-to-the-Sun road at the Sunrift Gorge trailhead. Both provide views of small falls on the Baring Creek. The Baring Creek originates from the Sexton Glacier and as such is extremely cold. I would not consider this a good place for a dip.
Parking is very limited but many visitors only stop here for a short while. This hike pairs well with the Saint Mary Falls Trail as they are of similar difficulty and in the same area of the park. If you are looking for a longer hike, you can combine with the Sun Point Nature Trail, starting at the Sun Point Picnic Area, which goes along Saint Mary Lake and connects to both the Baring Falls and Saint Mary / Virginia Falls trails.
Hike Details
- Distance: 0.7 miles*
- Type: Out and Back
- Elevation Gain: 65 ft*
- Elevation Loss: 115 ft*
- Restrooms: No
- Parking: Yes, but limited
- Distance From Park Entrance: 10.0 miles from the Saint Mary park entrance on the east side
*Source: Glacier National Park Visitor Guide
Sunrift Gorge
The viewpoint for the Sunrift Gorge is on the north side of the street. It’s just a few stairs up to the view point for the gorge. You can also walk down and under the bridge along the creek to continue on the trail to the Baring Falls.
Baring Falls
The path down to the falls is very narrow, surrounded by dense undergrowth, despite being a heavily trafficked trail. It is downhill mostly the whole way. It terminates at the Baring Falls which offers lots of good photo ops.
What To Bring
This is a short hike, mostly in direct sunlight. If you use trekking poles, you might want them for the hike back up.
- Water
- Hat and/or sunglasses
- Camera
- Wide angle lens in the 16-35mm range to capture river and waterfall views
- Zoom lens in the 50-100mm range for forest views and possible animal sightings
- Trekking Poles (if desired)
Photos
Coming Soon!
