Ousel Falls
Gallatin Gateway, Montana
| GPS: |
45°14'17.8"N 111°20'51.5"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Montana |
Hike, Rock Climb, and Swim
Ousel Falls is the crown jewel of Big Sky, Montana's town trails — a beautiful 100-foot waterfall reached by one of the most popular and family-friendly short hikes in the region. Tucked into a forested ravine on the South Fork of the West Fork of the Gallatin River, just minutes from Big Sky Town Center, it's an easy, scenic outing that rewards hikers of all ages with a genuinely impressive cascade.
The trail is a gem in its own right. The well-built path — smooth, with bridges and a stroller-friendly surface near the start — descends gently into the ravine, crossing the river before reaching the falls in under a mile each way (about 1.6 miles round trip). Picnic tables along the way and at the falls make it easy to linger, and once the cascade comes into view, short side paths lead to the base, the top, and a scenic overlook.
A safety note on the water: as inviting as the pool below the falls looks, swimming is not recommended here — the current is strong and the water stays extremely cold year-round. It's a fine spot to cool your feet and wade carefully at the edge, but keep children close and stay well back from the powerful water near the falls.
Ousel Falls is a true four-season trail, accessible roughly May through October for hiking (and snowshoeing in winter). Spring snowmelt makes the falls thunder, while summer brings cool shade and wildflowers. From Big Sky Town Center, drive about 2 miles south on Ousel Falls Road to the well-marked trailhead. Bring water and sturdy shoes, pack out your trash, and enjoy one of southwest Montana's most rewarding short hikes.
More Information
Ousel Falls - World of Waterfalls
Hike to Ousel Falls in the Custer Gallatin National Forest to witness a spectacular 100-foot waterfall surrounded by lush green forests. The trail is well-maintained, featuring bridges and groomed paths, making it accessible for many hikers. Along the way, you’ll find overlooks that offer magnificent views of the valley, and the falls themselves are truly incredible. The trail also provides access to the base of the waterfall, allowing for up-close views of the cascading water. During the summer months, keep an eye out for wildlife, as this area is known for its population of Ousel Birds, also called the American Dipper.
https://www.world-of-waterfalls.com/waterfalls/pacific-northwest-ousel-falls/Be courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
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- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Gallatin Gateway, Montana
- Head east on Gateway South Rd/Mill St toward US-191 N (161 ft)
- Turn right at the 1st cross street onto US-191 S/Gallatin Rd (28.3 mi)
- Turn right onto Lone Mountain Trail (2.9 mi)
- Turn left onto Ousel Falls Rd (2.0 mi)
- Turn left to stay on Ousel Falls Rd (0.3 mi)
- Turn left onto 0usel Falls View Rd (0.4 mi)
From Bozeman drive west on Huffine Lane 9 miles to Four Corners, turn south on US Highway 191 for another 34 miles. You cross the beautiful Gallatin River many times and view some of Montana finest scenery in the Gallatin Canyons, before the turnoff to the Big Sky Road. Next take a right driving west 2.4 miles to Ousel Falls Road. Straight ahead you can’t help but notice awesome Lone Mountain, home to Big Sky Ski resort and one of the highest peaks in the Gallatin National Forest at 11,188 feet. At Ousel Falls Road go left for another 2 miles to Ousel Falls Park and the trailhead's at the backside of the parking lot. (Courtesy of waterfallsmontana.com)
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