Yes there are bears! Whoever said there weren't is....nuts! Of course they hibernate during the winter, but don't hike ANYWHERE around Big Sky without bear spray. Be sure it's current, ready to fire (out of the package, out of your pack and you know how to use it) and that you understand the principle: you spray it at the BEAR, not on yourself! Bears aren't out hunting for you, and people aren't on their menu, but we have both black bears and grizzlies here. Moose are abundant at any time of year. They are probably more dangerous than bear and mother moose have no sense of humor when accompanied by a calf. Elk, big horns (sheep), fox, and coyote are also common, prong horns and mountain goats are occasionally seen, and there are wolves around, usually at night. Bison don't roam Big Sky, but there are herds nearby in Yellowstone, Paradise and Gallatin Gateway. (Mountain cats will see you before you see them: they scare me more than anything else!) All in all, it's wise to remember that Montana wildlife is just that: wild. It isn't tamed and can't be counted on to run away or follow any rules. Be prepared and keep your distance.

Plenty of parking on the paved lot at the head of the trail. Prize of a grand view of the falls 8/10 of a mile away. Oh yeah, there is toilet in the lot too. Incredibly maintained and well marked trail that switchbacks gently for the descent. Take your time. Rest on one of the many benches along the way. Enjoy the scenery. This appears to be a well loved trail frequented by the locals.