Of all the states in the country, Montana might just be the best for outdoor adventures. Whether adventure to you means camping for the weekend and exploring high peaks or simply taking a walk outside your own door, there’s something for everyone here. One of our favorite ways to get outside is to explore some of the state’s waterfalls. And this trail, which is short enough for little kid legs and beginners, leads to one of the most surprisingly beautiful!
Located within the Gallatin Forest, the Palisade Falls Trail is one of the simplest waterfall trails in the area.
Christina B / TripAdvisor
The 1.1-mile out-and-back route has an elevation gain of just 239-feet and the bulk of it will take you along a paved path.
Gia Popa / alltrails.com
The forested route is beautiful, with green trees and lots of shade.
Lorie & Sean Y. / alltrails.com
There are lots of areas to see the rocky stream here, too. This is a great feature for kids who might need a little something extra to hold their attention.
Wssloman / TripAdvisor
And the views! The surrounding mountains are on display here which makes this a great way to fully appreciate Montana’s wilderness.
Gia Popa / alltrails.com
The falls are located at the end of the trail. While the route to this point is paved, if you want to get closer to the waterfall you’ll need to navigate over some rocks and scree.
Betsy F / TripAdvisor
While this isn’t necessarily difficult, you’ll want to be sure you’re wearing good sneakers or boots. But doing this isn’t necessary to view the falls.
Katherine Tadej / alltrails.com
And the falls are truly stunning! Plummeting 80-feet from the top of a rock wall it’s easy to spend longer than expected watching it flow.
Tierra Starr / alltrails.com
Time your hike for just before sunset and the light will hit the waterfall in a way that makes it absolutely sparkle.
Caitlin M / TripAdvisor
We love it in the spring and summer, but if the conditions are manageable consider taking a winter hike. Palisade Falls takes on a whole different look this time of year!
Gaby Milhoan / alltrails.com Once you’ve enjoyed the view, simply turn around and head back the same way you came. Then, plan for your next visit!
Palisades Falls is located within the Hyalite-Porcupine-Buffalo Horn Wilderness Study Area in the Gallatin Forest. You can learn more about the trail by visiting alltrails.com. It’s best used from May through October. Feel free to bring the pups along, but remember to keep them leashed.
Christina B / TripAdvisor
Gia Popa / alltrails.com
Lorie & Sean Y. / alltrails.com
Wssloman / TripAdvisor
Betsy F / TripAdvisor
Katherine Tadej / alltrails.com
Tierra Starr / alltrails.com
Caitlin M / TripAdvisor
Gaby Milhoan / alltrails.com
Once you’ve enjoyed the view, simply turn around and head back the same way you came. Then, plan for your next visit!
And for more outdoor fun like this check out the ultimate bucket list for anyone in Montana who loves waterfall hikes.
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Address: Palisades Falls, Montana 59047, USA
