Last Updated on July 22, 2026
Bear Creek Falls Near Revelstoke: A Must-Stop Waterfall In Glacier National Park
When people think about waterfalls near Revelstoke, they often picture some of the area’s more famous attractions. But tucked away along the Trans-Canada Highway, just a short drive east of Revelstoke, is one of the region’s most rewarding stops: Bear Creek Falls.
Located inside Glacier National Park, this beautiful waterfall offers an incredible taste of British Columbia’s rugged mountain scenery without requiring a full-day adventure.
The funny thing about Bear Creek Falls is that the hardest part about visiting isn’t the hike—it is how easy it is to drive right past the entrance.
Every year, countless travellers drive right past this beautiful waterfall without ever realizing it is there. The turnoff comes up quickly along the Trans-Canada Highway, and with towering mountains and endless scenery competing for your attention, it is surprisingly easy to miss.
You may continue driving through Glacier National Park without ever realizing one of the area’s most scenic stops was just minutes away. And that is exactly what makes Bear Creek Falls such a fun discovery.
Exploring Glacier National Park
Bear Creek Falls is located within Glacier National Park, one of Canada’s oldest national parks. Established in 1886, the park protects more than 1,300 square kilometers of rugged wilderness in British Columbia’s Columbia Mountains.
Unlike some of Canada’s larger and more famous national parks, Glacier National Park often feels like a hidden gem. Many visitors pass through on their way between Revelstoke and the Alberta Rockies, focused on reaching their final destination rather than stopping to explore the incredible landscapes surrounding them.
But taking the time to slow down reveals a park filled with dramatic mountain peaks, ancient forests, glaciers, alpine environments, wildlife, waterfalls, and fascinating history.
The park’s location in the Selkirk Mountains means it receives some of the heaviest snowfall in Canada, creating the glaciers and snow-covered peaks that make this region so unique. The same rugged terrain that makes the scenery so beautiful also played a major role in shaping Canada’s history.
For travelers who want to experience the beauty of Glacier National Park without committing to a challenging backcountry adventure, Bear Creek Falls is the perfect introduction.
A Scenic Stop Along Historic Rogers Pass
Bear Creek Falls is located near Rogers Pass, one of Canada’s most important mountain crossings.
The pass was discovered in 1881 by surveyor Major Albert Bowman Rogers, who was searching for a route through the challenging Selkirk Mountains. His discovery became a crucial part of the Canadian Pacific Railway route, helping connect Eastern and Western Canada.
Building the railway through this area was an incredible engineering achievement. Workers faced steep mountain slopes, dense forests, harsh weather, and some of the most extreme snowfall conditions in the country. Avalanches were—and continue to be—a major challenge in the region.
Today, Rogers Pass is recognized as a National Historic Site and remains a vital transportation corridor through Glacier National Park. Visitors can stop at the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre to learn about the railway history, mountaineering heritage, wildlife, and the innovative avalanche control systems that help keep the highway and railway safe each winter.
As you drive through Rogers Pass today, it is easy to admire the dramatic scenery from your vehicle. But stopping at places like Bear Creek Falls allows you to truly experience this incredible landscape up close.
Finding The Bear Creek Falls Trailhead
One of the biggest things to know before visiting Bear Creek Falls is that the entrance is easy to miss.
It is one of those places where you arrive later and think, “Wait… we drove right past that?”
Using GPS is helpful, especially if it is your first time visiting. Slow down as you approach the area and keep an eye out for the turnoff. If you miss the turn, don’t worry—you definitely won’t be the first person to do so. We missed the turn the first time we were looking for it, too. Simply continue until you can safely turn around and try again.
If you are driving west to east from Revelstoke toward Golden, keep an eye out for the Bear Creek Falls sign about 1 kilometer before the actual turnoff. The entrance is on the right-hand side of the highway and comes up quickly, so it is worth slowing down as you approach.
If you are approaching from the opposite direction—driving east to west from Golden toward Revelstoke—you cannot make a direct left turn into the Bear Creek Falls access road. Instead, continue driving to the Hermit Trailhead area, where you can safely turn around, then return from the westbound direction and make the right-hand turn into the trailhead.
The turn itself is fairly sharp, but once you make it onto the access road, the rest of the drive is straightforward. Follow the paved road for a few minutes until you reach the designated Bear Creek Falls parking area. The parking lot has washrooms and an information board where you can learn more about the area.
Once you have successfully navigated the turnoff, the hardest part is over. Park your vehicle, grab your camera, and get ready to explore one of Glacier National Park’s most rewarding short hikes.
Once you know where to look, Bear Creek Falls becomes one of the easiest hidden gems to add to your Revelstoke itinerary.
Bear Creek Falls Trail Details And How To Get There
Before heading out to Bear Creek Falls, there are a few practical details worth knowing. Although this is a short hike, planning ahead will make your visit much smoother—especially because the trailhead turnoff is one of the easiest places to accidentally drive right past.
Bear Creek Falls Quick Facts
- Location: Glacier National Park, British Columbia
- Distance: 1.3 km return (0.8 miles)
- Elevation gain: Approximately 52 metres (170 feet)
- Trail type: Out-and-back trail
- Time required: Approximately 30–60 minutes return, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the viewpoint
- Difficulty: Easy (with steep stair sections)
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
A Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required to access Bear Creek Falls since the trail is located within Glacier National Park. If you are spending multiple days exploring Canada’s national parks, a Discovery Pass can be a great option as it provides access to many Parks Canada locations across the country.
The Short Walk To Bear Creek Falls
One of the best things about Bear Creek Falls is that it offers a big reward without requiring a long hike—but don’t let the short distance fool you.
The walk to the falls is relatively short, but there are a couple of steep sections with large stair sets. The path descends through the forest toward the viewpoint, and while most visitors can complete it comfortably, you’ll want to save a little energy for the climb back up.
As you make your way along the trail, you’ll be surrounded by the lush forest that makes Glacier National Park so special. Towering trees, moss-covered rocks, and the sound of rushing water create a peaceful mountain atmosphere long before you reach the viewpoint.
The stairs are the biggest challenge of the walk, especially for younger children or anyone with mobility concerns. Take your time, stop for breaks if needed, and wear shoes with good traction, especially after rain when the steps and trail can become slippery.
Once you reach Bear Creek Falls, the effort is well worth it. The viewpoint opens up to reveal Bear Creek flowing through the rugged canyon below, surrounded by the dramatic peaks and forests of Glacier National Park.
It is the perfect example of a British Columbia adventure that doesn’t take an entire day—but still rewards you with an incredible view.
Best Time To Visit Bear Creek Falls
Bear Creek Falls is a beautiful stop in Glacier National Park any time of year, but each season brings a different experience:
Spring
Spring is one of the most impressive times to visit Bear Creek Falls. As snow melts from the surrounding Selkirk Mountains, Bear Creek swells with water, creating a powerful rush through the canyon below.
The combination of roaring water, fresh greenery, and cooler temperatures makes spring a fantastic time for photographers and anyone wanting to experience the waterfall at its fullest.
Keep in mind that trail conditions can vary early in the season, so wear appropriate footwear and take care on the stairs if the trail is wet.
Summer
Summer is the most popular time to visit Bear Creek Falls, thanks to warm temperatures, lush forest, and generally easier trail conditions.
Visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can provide a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
The surrounding Glacier National Park scenery is especially beautiful in summer, making Bear Creek Falls a great addition to a Revelstoke road trip itinerary.
Fall
Fall is an incredible time to explore Glacier National Park and Rogers Pass. As the forest changes color, the golden foliage creates a stunning contrast against the dark canyon walls and rushing white water of Bear Creek Falls.
The drive through the Columbia Mountains is also spectacular during this season, making this an ideal stop for anyone enjoying a fall road trip through British Columbia.
Winter
Winter transforms Bear Creek Falls into a peaceful mountain scene. Snow-covered trees, icy sections along the creek, and the quiet atmosphere of Glacier National Park create a completely different experience.
However, winter visitors should be prepared for changing conditions. Snow and ice can make the steep stair sections more challenging, so check conditions before visiting and wear footwear with good traction.
Tips For Visiting Bear Creek Falls
Before you go, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Watch carefully for the turnoff—it is easy to miss from the Trans-Canada Highway.
- Use GPS if you are unfamiliar with the area.
- Prepare to get soaked! Depending on water levels and wind, the mist from Bear Creek Falls can reach the viewpoint, especially during spring runoff when the waterfall is flowing at its strongest. A rain jacket or waterproof layer can be a good idea if you want to stay dry.
- Wear sturdy footwear with good traction, especially after rain when the stairs and trail can become slippery.
- Be prepared for steep stair sections along the trail.
- Allow extra time if visiting with young children or anyone who prefers easier walks.
- Bring a camera—the canyon and waterfall views are worth capturing.
- Allow approximately 30–45 minutes for your visit, including time to enjoy the viewpoint.
- Keep children close near the viewpoint areas.
- Stay on designated trails and respect the natural environment. Leave no trace!
Add Bear Creek Falls To Your Revelstoke Itinerary
Revelstoke is surrounded by incredible outdoor adventures, but some of the best stops are the ones that don’t require an entire day of planning.
Bear Creek Falls is the perfect example.
Located inside Glacier National Park near historic Rogers Pass, this scenic waterfall offers a chance to experience the dramatic landscapes of British Columbia’s Columbia Mountains with only a short walk from the highway.
Whether you are road tripping through British Columbia, exploring Revelstoke, or looking for a worthwhile stop along the Trans-Canada Highway, don’t make the same mistake as so many other travelers.
Slow down.
Watch for the turn.
And make time to experience Bear Creek Falls—one of Glacier National Park’s most rewarding roadside stops.
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