Last updated: July 14, 2025
Thing to Do
Hike to Alberta Falls
NPS
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 160 ft (49 m)
- Type of Trail: Out & Back
Accessible from either Glacier Gorge or Bear Lake Trailheads, Glacier Creek thunders down Alberta Falls. This spectacular area is one of the most visited sections of Rocky Mountain National Park.
From the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, Alberta Falls is a well-traveled, beautiful hike. At 1.6 miles round trip with 160 feet (49 m) of elevation gain, this trail is a great option for thos interested in hiking to a waterfall. Along the way, enjoy hiking through aspen groves and a pine forest on the way to this scenic 30-foot waterfall thundering into Glacier Creek.
Continue along this trail to other destinations, including The Loch, Mills Lake, Lake Haiyaha, or Black Lake.
Note: This hike is also accessible from Bear Lake Trailhead, add 0.1 miles to trail distance.
Details
Activity
Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are prohibited on all trails within Rocky Mountain National Park.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Alberta Falls
Located along a hiking trail 0.8 miles one-way from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, which is located within the Rocky Mountain National Park's Bear Lake Road Corridor.
Reservations
Yes
Depending on what time of day you would like to hike, you might need a Timed Entry + Bear Lake Road reservation. Reservations are requied to access destinations along Bear Lake Road from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
To learn more, visit the park's Timed Entry Permit Reservation webpage at https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/timed-entry-permit-system.htm
Season
Year Round
Accessibility Information
This trail is not paved. The trail is rugged with an elevation gain of 160 feet.