Ted's Hiking World Three Waterfalls Loop
Glacier National Park

August 11, 2012 — Day #12

In the last two days, with the help of hiking partner David, I have accomplished my primary goals on this lengthy trip — namely the two hikes I have most wanted to do in Glacier Park.  Now it is time to cross the park again and take David back to the Amtrak station.

*
Saint Mary Lake on the park's east side

Because it probably still will be impossible to secure a parking space anywhere near the Avalanche Lake trailhead, we will knock off a few shorter walks along the Going to the Sun Road.  The first stop is at a wayside attraction that is most photogenic at this time of day:

*
Sunrift Gorge

The early-morning sun is shining right down the slender opening.  Nice.  Crossing the highway underneath the bridge spanning this creek, we find a short trail to the first of our three named waterfalls.

*
Large-leaved Aster *

*
Baring Falls

*
A closer inspection

From here we could continue westward along the shore of Saint Mary Lake to the next attraction, but David and I opt to return to the car and drive the better part of a mile to the official parking lot.

* *

Many others are interested in this trail today.  In about three quarters of a mile, we learn why:

*
Saint Mary Falls

*
This is why I go hiking

There is more to do on this trail.  As we progress up the hill, numerous unnamed cascades entertain us.

*

* *

I rarely bother with a neutral-density filter to 'slow down' the action of running water, but this seems like a good time:

*

Almost before we know it, the trail ends.

*
Virginia Falls

Being here is a lot of fun, and the spray from the falls feels really good.

* *

We both must get into the scene

Farther downstream the sun is at a poor angle for photos, so I must make do.

*

*
Below Virginia Falls

* *

Back at the bridge overlooking St. Mary Falls:

*
David awaits me on the bridge *
Looking downstream

My last photo in the park on this visit:

*
So long


§: This walk features great rewards for little effort.  Don't miss it.

Scenery *
Difficulty *
Personality *
Solitude *

Go Back