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Best waterfall hiking trails in Montana
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Best waterfall hiking trails in Montana

If the calming sound of cascading water fills your soul with joy, you're in for a treat. These waterfall trails will have you chasing misty rainbows and cooling off by nature's finest showers.

Here are some great trails to explore in Montana.

Most popular trails

1

Medium

Mystic Lake via West Rosebud Trail

Stillwater County, Montana · star 5.0 (38) · 9.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 35 min

2

Medium

Champagne Falls

Gallatin County, Montana · star 4.0 (38) · 11.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 1 min

3

Easy

Avalanche Lake - Trail of the Cedars

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.0 (47) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

4

Medium

September Morn Lake via Lake Fork Trail

Carbon County, Montana · star 4.0 (35) · 23.5 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

5

Medium

Granite Lake and Blue Lake via Big Timber Creek

Sweet Grass County, Montana · star 4.0 (34) · 12.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 33 min

6

Medium

St Mary Lake Trail

Glacier County, Montana · star 5.0 (43) · 5.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 16 min

7

Easy

Grinnell Lake, Lake Josephine and Swiftcurrent Lake

Glacier County, Montana · star 5.0 (39) · 11.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 25 min

8

Easy

Elk Lake via East Rosebud Trail

Carbon County, Montana · star 4.0 (9) · 10.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 22 min

9

Difficult

Lucifer Lake Trail

Lake County, Montana · star 5.0 (32) · 11.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 47 min

10

Medium

Overwhich Creek

Ravalli County, Montana · star 4.0 (16) · 26.1 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

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Reviews for waterfall hiking trails in Montana

Dr. Helga Weimann avatar

Mystic Lake via West Rosebud Trail

HillWanderer82 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Rev. Billye Ernser avatar

Champagne Falls

OutriderAspenseeker66 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Melanie avatar

Avalanche Lake - Trail of the Cedars

Adventure Seeker · reviewed 4 months ago

star star star star star

The Trail of Cedars is a very busy trail that's more like walking on a deck that leads to the Avalanche lake trail. Along the way, you will pass many water features, including some waterfalls and eventually, this leads to Avalanche Lake. Good trail, but way too many people.

Jeanett Carroll avatar

September Morn Lake via Lake Fork Trail

MountainForester81 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Bonnie McKenzie avatar

Granite Lake and Blue Lake via Big Timber Creek

StreamForester87 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Montana

What is the climate like for hiking in Montana?

With Montana's continental climate, the summer season, from June to September, offers the most comfortable hiking conditions. The weather is typically warm and sunny, making trails in areas like Glacier National Park particularly inviting. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so hikers should be prepared.
Autumn, from September to November, showcases vibrant fall colors, with milder temperatures ideal for hiking. Winter, though, is severe, with heavy snowfall limiting access to many trails. Spring can be unpredictable, with lingering snow and wet conditions in many areas, delaying the hiking season.
Therefore, the best time to hike in Montana is generally summer, particularly in July and August. Hikers should always check weather conditions and trail status ahead of time, using resources like the Montana Wilderness Association (https://wildmontana.org/discover-the-wild/hike-wild-montana) for detailed information.

Do I need a permit to hike in Montana?

Hiking in Montana often doesn't require permits, but certain areas like Glacier National Park require them for backcountry camping. Check specifics with relevant park services or on the official U.S. National Park Service website (https://www.nps.gov/index.htm) to ensure adherence to local rules and regulations.

Is wild camping allowed in Montana?

Wild camping in Montana's national forests is generally permitted, subject to specific rules and restrictions. It's recommended to verify local regulations via the U.S. Forest Service website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/superior/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=36905&actid=34). Always follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

Are there mountain rescue services in Montana?

In case of an emergency while hiking in Montana, contact local authorities by dialing 911. The county sheriff's office typically coordinates search and rescue efforts. Hikers can also refer to the Mountain Rescue Association's website (https://mra.org/) for additional resources and safety information.

Are there dangerous plants in Montana?

Montana's trails take hikers through diverse ecosystems, from grasslands to alpine meadows, populated by prairie flowers, Ponderosa pines, and western larch. Hikers should be aware of poison ivy in lower altitudes. More information can be found on the Montana Field Guide website (http://fieldguide.mt.gov/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Montana?

Hikers in Montana may encounter diverse wildlife such as elk, moose, bears, and mosquitoes. It's crucial to keep a safe distance from large mammals and carry bear spray when in bear country. The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website (http://fwp.mt.gov/) offers detailed wildlife encounter guidelines.

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