NOTE: There is now a large green sign on the highway indicating this hike is 1 km away. Watch for it.
Synopsis: An easy trail descends to an impressive waterfall. A very welcome respite from the terrors of the Trans Canada Highway.
Access: This trail is only accessible if you are heading east on the Trans Canada Highway from the summit of Rogers Pass. From the summit, drive east for 13.3 kilometres to a small turnout that has a viewpoint sign with an arrow indicating 200 metres.
Because you are coming down the hill on the TCH and concerned about the crazy drivers behind you, this one is easy to miss. At about 12 kilometres from the summit, there is a huge green sign announcing Bear Falls. When you see the sign, get ready to turn right. The highway widens a bit on the right, but the turn isn't until it widens even more. Turn right, and then right again immediately. Follow the paved road for about 50 metres to a parking area.
Trailhead: At the east end of the parking area, there is a large sign about services in Glacier National Park. Just to the right of the sign is a completely unmarked but well-built trail that descends into the forest.
Trail: The trail winds around the hill while descending, and within five minutes the sound of Connaught Creek drowns out the highway noise. Descend a set of wooden stairs and go straight to reach Bear Falls in 100 metres. Expect to get wet from the spray if you go right to the end. Note that the bridge that used to get you across Connaught Creek has been removed.
Cautions: