The kid-friendly hike known as Palisade Falls Trail in Custer Gallatin National Forest should top your to-do list. A short and easy hike puts you in the vicinity of an 80-foot waterfall, while stunning spruce and fir trees line the trail, creating cooling shade. There is even a picnic area where you can rest and refuel after your jaunt through the forest.
The Palisade Falls Trailhead is located south of Bozeman at the East Fork of Hylite Creek, which is found in the Hyalite Recreation Area of Custer Gallatin National Forest.
James Graham/AllTrails You’ll know that you’re in the right place when you see this sign.
Despite being a short hike, it’s one of the most beautiful in the state.
Dexter Jarrett/Alltrails The trail is just under 1.2 miles round trip, and it’s a great choice for a summer hike, as much of the route is shaded.
The trail is mostly paved, which makes it accessible for strollers, though there are a few steeper sections that may make the route difficult for those with limited mobility and wheelchairs.
Gia Popa/Alltrails The overall elevation gain is less than 250 feet and the trail is most accessible from May through October. It’s ideal for walking, jogging, running, and hiking, but winter visitors also use the trail for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
As the trail’s name suggests, Palisade Falls is the highlight of this short and sweet adventure.
Luke Weyrauch/Alltrails
The towering falls cascade over 80 feet down the base of Palisade Mountain, and it’s quite an impressive sight!
Coleman Zauner/Alltrails
Palisade Falls is one spot that you should consider visiting in both the summer and winter seasons if you are able to.
Dale White/Alltrails With a fresh dusting of snow, the trail remains majestic in winter. Deep into the cold season, Palisade Falls will freeze into a giant column of ice.
If you’re an early riser, sunrise is a lovely time to explore this trail.
Alex Whiteway/AllTrails As with any Montana hike, check weather reports ahead of time to make sure you visit on a crystal-clear day.
Take a day to get away from it all and reconnect with nature. You’ll encounter some of the most beautiful scenery you’ve ever witnessed in your life throughout the state. All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and a willingness to explore!
James Graham/AllTrails
You’ll know that you’re in the right place when you see this sign.
Dexter Jarrett/Alltrails
The trail is just under 1.2 miles round trip, and it’s a great choice for a summer hike, as much of the route is shaded.
Gia Popa/Alltrails
The overall elevation gain is less than 250 feet and the trail is most accessible from May through October. It’s ideal for walking, jogging, running, and hiking, but winter visitors also use the trail for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Luke Weyrauch/Alltrails
Coleman Zauner/Alltrails
Dale White/Alltrails
With a fresh dusting of snow, the trail remains majestic in winter. Deep into the cold season, Palisade Falls will freeze into a giant column of ice.
Alex Whiteway/AllTrails
As with any Montana hike, check weather reports ahead of time to make sure you visit on a crystal-clear day.
Have you hiked to Palisade Falls? Share your experience with us in the comments. And for another awesome hike in Montana, check out our previous article: This Beautiful Boardwalk Trail In Montana Is The Most Unique Hike Around.
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Address: Palisade Falls, Montana 59047, USA
