The Best Waterfalls to Visit in Southern Montana

With Spring just around the corner and a little bit of cabin fever setting in, I can't help but start planning all the adventures Montana has to offer once the snow finally melts. If you're in the same boat, here's one trip you'll definitely want to add to your calendar: a breathtaking waterfall road trip through Southern Montana!

1. Ousel Falls

Kick things off in Big Sky with a short but rewarding hike to Ousel Falls. This two-mile roundtrip trail winds through the forest and takes about 45 minutes to complete. The payoff? A stunning 100-foot waterfall, complete with overlooks and access to the base for an up-close view.

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2. Grotto Falls 

Just outside Bozeman, this 2.5-mile hike through Hyalite Canyon is a must-see. Rated 4.7 stars on AllTrails, it's best enjoyed in the summer when the trail is free of ice.

3. Palisade Falls 

Before leaving Hyalite Canyon, make sure to visit Palisade Falls. Towering at 80 feet, this waterfall is accessed via a short 1.1-mile paved trail, making it one of the easiest yet most spectacular waterfalls to visit.

4. Natural Bridge Falls

Located along the Boulder River near Big Timber, this is one of the most unique waterfalls on the list. Water carves through a natural rock bridge before plunging into a deep canyon, creating an unforgettable sight.

5. Woodbine Falls – Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

One of the tallest waterfalls in Montana, Woodbine Falls is a showstopper cascading down 280 feet. The trailhead starts at Woodbine Campground and goes for about 1.4 miles through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

With warmer days ahead, it won't be long before these waterfalls will be flowing in full force! 

Credit: WorldOfWaterfalls, Alltrails