Arch Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Arch Falls
Arch Falls is a scenic cascade tucked into Montana’s Gallatin National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls sit within a rugged, forested setting that rewards photographers and day hikers with a peaceful riverside viewpoint. Access is via the U.S. Forest Service’s Grotto Falls Trail (Trail #432), whose short maintained spur leads down to the falls and frames them against mossy rock and mixed-conifer forest. The approach to Arch Falls is an enjoyable moderate outing—2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain on an out-and-back route. The USFS inventory notes the Grotto Falls Trail #432 includes a 0.03-mile segment surfaced with imported compacted material and is listed as Class 5; overall the hike is rated moderate. If you’re planning to camp, Chisholm Campground is nearby, about 5.3 km from the trailhead, making Arch Falls a convenient day trip or part of a short overnight itinerary in Gallatin National Forest.
The Setting
Arch Falls sits at 7,343 feet within Gallatin National Forest, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
USFS Trail
GROTTO FALLS #432
Trail Class
Fully Developed
Surface
USFS Segment
0.03 miTrail Description
The hike to Arch Falls is an out-and-back route totaling 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The approach uses the USFS Grotto Falls Trail (Trail #432); the USFS trail inventory records a short 0.03-mile segment surfaced with imported compacted material. That trail segment is listed as Class 5 in the USFS data. Expect natural, uneven terrain beyond the maintained spur—roots, rocks, and typical backcountry footing—so sturdy shoes and basic trail skills are recommended. The route and falls are managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Gallatin National Forest, and Chisholm Campground lies about 5.3 km from the trailhead for those looking to stay nearby.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene natural setting with the sound of cascading water and opportunities for photography. The area may also feature rugged terrain and dense vegetation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Arch Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Arch Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are ideal for visiting Arch Falls due to favorable weather and vibrant greenery. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may present icy conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Gallatin National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential wildlife encounters. Always stay on marked trails and carry bear spray if hiking in bear country.
Current Water Conditions
35 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 80 years of record
2.39 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Hyalite C at Hyalite R S nr Bozeman MT (17 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
37 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
38 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
33 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
33 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early May to early August, peaking in June.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Emigrant hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 90 feet through Arch Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 7,357 feet.
The ground changes about 76 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 29 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 7,357 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 90 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Arch Falls is located in Montana, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or contact nearby ranger stations for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should expect limited parking near the trailhead or along nearby roads.
Elevation
7,343 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.427154° N, -110.961055° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery or inaccessible during rain or snow.
This trail sits at 7,343 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 29% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Where to Stay
Game Day Hub! half Mi to MSU and Bobcat Stadium
Field & Stream Lodge Bozeman
Under Canvas North Yellowstone - Paradise Valley
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Livingston Yellowstone
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
CHISHOLM CAMPGROUND
3.3 miles away · 10 sites
Overview Chisholm Campground is located next to scenic Hyalite Reservoir in the Bozeman Ranger District of the Gallatin National Forest, 18 miles south of Bozeman, Montana. The surrounding area offers many outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking and climbing.Recreation Hyalite Reservoir offers many recreational activities, including boating, canoeing and fishing opportunities. Anglers fish for Yellowstone cutthroat, Arctic grayling and brook trout. Hyalite
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions may include other hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and natural landmarks in Montana.
Wildlife
The area may be home to wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with bears or other large animals.
Cities near Arch Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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