Top 8 Waterfalls in Custer Gallatin National Forest
Best waterfalls in Custer Gallatin National Forest span over 3 million acres across southern Montana and into northwestern Wyoming. This vast area features diverse terrain, from dense forests to alpine lakes, providing a backdrop for numerous waterfalls. The region is characterized by its significant natural landscape, offering various outdoor activities. Visitors can explore a range of waterfalls, each with unique features and accessibility.
Best waterfalls in Custer Gallatin National Forest
- The most popular waterfalls is Ousel Falls, a waterfallβ¦
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Ousel Falls
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The trail and the waterfall offer a quiet moment into the β¦
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Pine Creek Trail
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Passage Creek Falls
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Upper Big Timber Falls
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Clarks Fork Waterfall
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Tips from the Community
Pine Creek Trail in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness leads you through dense forest, wildflower meadows, and past cascading waterfalls on the way to a high alpine lake. Itβs a challenging but rewarding hike, with sweeping mountain views that open up as you gain elevation.
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Very quick and easy to reach from the parking lot, beautiful view and impressive waterfall
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A short hike from the Big Timber trailhead near the Halfmoon campground takes you to the viewing point of the powerful Big Timber Creek Falls, a spot you might be able to catch extreme kayakers daring Montana's steepest falls.
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Beautiful falls with a relatively easy hike from the trailhead through old burn areas with a creek crossing. However, bring hiking poles and sturdy hiking shoes, since the switchbacks down the canyon wall to the falls viewpoint at the creekside are very loose and steep. Don't forget to take a look at the impressive falls from above by taking the small unmarked side-branch trail.
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Easy well-maintained hike to the falls from the parking lot. If you want a little more interesting of a hike, make sure you don't miss the "connector", which adds some more climbing and descending, but it takes you closer to the Gallatin River, and there is another beautiful small stream that you cross along the way. Built up. nicely with boardwalks that would be fun on a mountain bike.
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Ousel Falls is a popular waterfall you can enjoy after an easy hike in the south of Big Sky. The trail and the waterfall offer a quiet moment into the forest, and if you are lucky, you can see ouzel birds diving into the river.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which waterfalls in Custer Gallatin National Forest are most accessible for all visitors?
For excellent accessibility, consider Ousel Falls near Big Sky, which features a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail accessible year-round. Another great option is Palisade Falls, known for its wheelchair-friendly paved nature trail, picnic area, and accessible vault toilet.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Custer Gallatin National Forest?
The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. Late spring offers peak water flow for impressive cascades like Palisade Falls. For a unique experience, visit Ousel Falls in winter to witness stunning icicle formations.
Are there family-friendly waterfall hikes in Custer Gallatin National Forest?
Yes, several waterfalls are suitable for families. Palisade Falls offers a very accessible paved trail. Ousel Falls is also considered family-friendly with its short, scenic walk. Natural Bridge Falls provides an easy 0.4-mile hike to an impressive cascade.
What are some challenging waterfall trails for experienced hikers?
For a more challenging adventure, the Pine Creek Trail leads past cascading waterfalls on its way to a high alpine lake, offering sweeping mountain views as you gain elevation. The full Hyalite Creek Trail is a longer 16.2-mile journey suitable for experienced hikers.
Can I see multiple waterfalls on a single trail in the Custer Gallatin National Forest?
Yes, the Hyalite Creek Trail is ideal for waterfall enthusiasts, as it follows Hyalite Creek and passes more than 10 waterfalls, including the easily-reachable Grotto Falls. The Lava Lake Trail also offers views of several waterfalls along Cascade Creek.
What unique natural features can be observed at the waterfalls?
Many waterfalls offer unique natural features. Palisade Falls plunges over ancient basalt columns, while Natural Bridge Falls is notable for its unique river geology. In winter, Ousel Falls transforms with stunning icicle formations.
Are there any waterfalls with impressive height or power?
Woodbine Falls in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness is a significant waterfall, ranging from 260 to 280 feet in height. You can also experience the powerful Big Timber Creek Falls at Upper Big Timber Falls.
What outdoor activities can I do near the waterfalls in Custer Gallatin National Forest?
Beyond waterfall viewing, the region offers extensive outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the Hyalite Creek Trail and Ousel Falls Trail. There are also opportunities for gravel biking and mountain biking on various trails throughout the Custer Gallatin National Forest.
Are there any quick and easy-to-reach waterfalls for a short visit?
Yes, Clarks Fork Waterfall is very quick and easy to reach from its parking lot, offering a beautiful view. Natural Bridge Falls also provides an easy 0.4-mile hike to its impressive cascade.
What should I know about hiking to Passage Creek Falls?
The hike to Passage Creek Falls offers impressive views. While the initial trail is relatively easy, be prepared for switchbacks down a canyon wall to the falls viewpoint, which can be very loose and steep. Sturdy hiking shoes and poles are recommended.
Are there any waterfalls that are particularly popular with the komoot community?
Ousel Falls is a highly popular waterfall, appreciated by the komoot community for its quiet forest setting and year-round accessibility. Visitors often share tips about its well-maintained trail and the stunning icicle formations in winter.
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Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls in Custer Gallatin National Forest:
