Experience the Beauty of Montana's Waterfalls: Top 5 Hiking Trails

Montana is the lucky home to truly some of the most breathtaking views, waterfalls, and hikes in the country! Hiking up to these natural world wonders is absolutely a must-do activity for any beginner or experienced outdoor enthusiast! Whether you're just looking for a super challenging and fulfilling trek or simply on the hunt for a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of different waterfall hikes in the great Montana that offer absolutely stunning views and completely unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the best trails to explore, although the list could go on forever! This guide will just be getting you started.

Virginia Falls Trail in Glacier National Park

The Virginia Falls Trail in the impeccable Glacier National Park is a moderately challenging 3.6-mile hike that takes you through the absolutely lush forests along the banks of the beautiful St. Mary River. The trail ends at Virginia Falls, which is a totally stunning 50-foot cascade that plunges down and deep into a crystal-clear, classic pool. Along the way, the hikers can enjoy unbelievable views of the surrounding mountainranges, and extreme wildlife, including bighorn sheep and mountain goats. This winding trail is an absolute must-see for anyone that's visiting or planning a visit to Glacier National Park.

Ousel Falls Trail in Big Sky.

The Ousel Falls Trail in Big Sky is a super popular hiking destination! It offers completely stunning views of a monster 40-foot waterfall! The trail is a moderately challenging, but moreso beginner 1.6-mile hike that takes you through a beautiful forested area, along the South Fork of the Gallatin River. Along the way, hikers, walkers, nature lovers and all can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountainranges and exquisite wildlife, including moose, hawks, elk, and more! This trail is well-maintained and very suitable for hikers of all different skill levels, which makes it a great option for varying sizes of families and groups.

Palisade Falls Trail in Bozeman

The Palisade Falls Trail in Bozeman is a total must-visit for anyone looking to really experience the beauty of Montana's waterfalls to the fullest. The trail is a short and easy one, coming in as a 1.1-mile hike. This hike is incredible, and takes you to the base of a totally stunning 80-foot waterfall! Along the way, hikers of all different skill levels will enjoy views of the surrounding mountainranges and forests, and there's a great opportunity as well to spot wildlife like deer, various Montanan birds, and more. This trail is well-marked, well-maintained, and suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels! This is a great option for families and groups! Absolutely be sure to not forget your camera to capture the beauty of this natural wonder, and your waterbottle and snacks to stay fueld along the way!

Running Eagle Falls Trail in Two Medicine

The Running Eagle Falls Trail in Two Medicine is a very popular hiking destination in Montana, for good reason! It's known for its stunning waterfall and breathtaking scenic views. This trail is a moderate 0.6-mile hike, and it takes you to the base of the waterfall! This waterfall is of great historical significance, which is why it is named after a legendary Native American woman who could transform herself into an eagle! The story of this remarkable adolescent Blackfeet warrior named Otaki is one held dear by the people of Two Medicine! She lived as Otaki until Chief Lone Walker gave her the male name Pi'tamaka or Running Eagle, which was a sign of respect and meant to honor for her complete and utter bravery in battle. Pi'tamaka struggled and yearned to know her real purpose in her life. Read more about the history here! Along the way, hikers can indulge in amazing views of the surrounding mountainranges and forest lands, as well as the rare opportunity to spot wildlife like bears, elk, and more! This trail is extremely well-maintained and very suitable for hikers of all ages, experience, and skill levels. This makes it a great option for families and groups of all different backgrounds, skill levels, and circumstances! Don't forget to bring your sturdy hiking boots and a craving of adventure!

Kootenai Falls Trail in Libby

The Kootenai Falls Trail in Libby, Montana is a total must-visit for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Big Sky Country's nature and waterfalls. This trail is a moderately challenging, but relatively short 1.5-mile hike that takes you right to the absolutely stunning Kootenai Falls,! These falls are known for their stunning, turquoise blue waters and impressive size. Along the hike, explorers can really indulge and enjoy views of surrounding mountains and nature! Wildlife like bald eagles and osprey, and more are sure to be out and about depending on the season. This trail is very well-marked and easy to follow, which makes it a great option for hikers of all skill and experience levels. You'll definitely want to remember to bring your camera or phone so you can capture all of the beautiful sights you're about to bear witness to!

Happy hiking and best of luck! Remember to be respectful of the people, animals, and nature you encounter while exploring and enjoying Big Sky country!