Unmissable Waterfalls to Explore in the Rocky Mountains of Western Montana

Unmissable Waterfalls to Explore in the Rocky Mountains of Western Montana

For those seeking a break from the bustling crowds of Glacier National Park, Western Montana offers an array of stunning waterfall hikes that cater to various skill levels and preferences. Here are some top recommendations for your next adventure.

First on our list is Deadwood Falls, situated near the Going-to-the-Sun Road area but outside the main Glacier NP trails. With a distance of approximately 2 miles round trip, Deadwood Falls boasts a fantastic set of waterfalls, a swinging bridge over the creek, and red rock formations reminiscent of Zion National Park. The waterfall ends in a pool suitable for a refreshing dip, despite the colder temperatures [1].

Another must-visit is Yaak Falls, located in Montana and accessible very close to the road. This waterfall offers impressive cascade views without the need for a long hike. Visitors can enjoy the huge, powerful falls either from the roadside or by taking a short scramble for a closer look [1].

The Morrell Falls hike, located near Seeley Lake, Montana, is a National Recreation Trail that features a 90-foot double waterfall pouring into a rocky basin surrounded by Montana's famous rainbow rock [2]. Sweathouse Falls, also in the Bitterroot Valley, is a moderately difficult hike with a distance of 5 miles and an elevation gain of 1,502 feet [2].

For those seeking an easier hike, the Morrell Falls trail is relatively flat, with a distance of 5.5 miles and an elevation gain of 436 feet [2]. Another popular trail is Ousel Falls in Big Sky, Montana, with a distance of 1.7 miles and an elevation gain of 242 feet [2].

In Glacier National Park, Virginia Falls is a moderate hike with a distance of 3.1 miles and an elevation gain of 452 feet [3]. Holland Falls are tucked into a rocky cliff face and drop about 50 feet [4].

For more extensive hiking, Grinnell Falls, located in Glacier National Park, offers a challenging trail with a distance of 6.4-11 miles round trip and an elevation gain of 736-1,856 feet [4]. This trail offers stunning views of the Mission Mountains and Swan Valley.

Outside Glacier National Park, Sweathouse Falls flow over a rocky ledge and cascade into a deep, clear pool [2]. Crow Creek Falls, located near Helena, Montana, has a distance of 5.5 miles and an elevation gain of 1,135 feet [5]. Bear Creek Falls, in Victor, Montana, has a distance of 4 miles out and back and an elevation gain of 680 feet [5].

Woodbine Falls, located in Columbus, Montana, is one of the tallest waterfalls in the state, cascading nearly 280 feet down a rocky cliff face [6]. Running Eagle Falls in the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park is a unique waterfall that appears to gush straight off the rock during the dry season [7].

Lastly, Kootenai Falls, located just off Highway 2 near Libby, is one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls in Montana, and can be accessed with zero hiking [8]. Palisade Falls, near Livingston, Montana, is a short and sweet waterfall hike, with a distance of 1.1 miles [9].

Whether you're seeking easy waterfall hikes or more challenging trails, Western Montana offers a diverse range of options. For a comprehensive list of waterfall hikes in Montana, including those in the Western Montana region excluding Glacier National Park, it may be helpful to explore regional hiking resources or consult local guides.

References: [1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5] [6] [Source 6] [7] [Source 7] [8] [Source 8] [9] [Source 9]

1. After exploring the busy trails of Glacier National Park, consider venturing to Deadwood Falls, a scenic waterfall hike outside the park limits, featuring red rock formations and a refreshing pool.
2. For an easy waterfall hike without a long trek, Yaak Falls in Montana offers accessible cascade views, perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful natural experience.
3. If you're up for a challenge, the Morrell Falls hike in Seeley Lake, Montana, boasts a double waterfall and Montana's famous rainbow rock, making it an ideal destination for those into sports and outdoor lifestyles.
4. For home-and-garden enthusiasts, Ousel Falls in Big Sky, Montana, offers a serene hiking experience with beautiful falls and a relatively short distance, making it an excellent addition to your travel itinerary.
5. In the national parks of Western Montana, Kootenai Falls, just off Highway 2, offers a powerful and impressive waterfall view, providing a convenient and hike-free experience for travelers.

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