Are there fees or permits required for Cedar Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Cedar Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Cedar Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Cedar Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,230 ft³/s · About average

Cedar Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Cedar Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Cedar Falls.

Montana

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Photo Credits (5)

U.S. Geological Survey Public Domain · USGS

The Weed Route CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Adventure George CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Einahpets32 (Stephanie) CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

3.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

500 ft

About Cedar Falls

Cedar Falls is a peaceful, picture-postcard cascade tucked into the forests of Lewis and Clark National Forest in Montana. The falls are framed by dense conifers and a lush understory, making the short outing feel secluded and verdant — a great spot for hikers who want the sound of rushing water without a long backcountry trek. Note that "Cedar Falls" is a common place name (Wikipedia notes multiple sites share it), so double-check local maps or the forest office to be sure you’re headed to the Montana cascade in Lewis and Clark NF. The route is popular with day-hikers and nature lovers, and if you’re planning to camp nearby, Bear Creek Cabin in Beaverhead–Deerlodge National Forest is about 9.6 km from the trailhead and offers a convenient overnight option. The setting feels quintessentially Northern Rockies: shaded trails, mossy rocks, and the steady rhythm of falling water.

The Setting

Cedar Falls sits at 9,311 feet along the Madison River, in the high alpine of Montana.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 3.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

This is a 3.0-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain; the route is rated moderate in difficulty. The tread winds through dense forest and is generally well-marked, but expect some rocky or uneven sections underfoot as you gain elevation toward the falls. Trail type: out-and-back. Difficulty: moderate. Distance: 3.0 miles. Elevation gain: ~500 ft. The path’s grade is steady rather than steep, making it a satisfying half-day hike for most experienced walkers; always check current trail conditions with the Lewis and Clark National Forest office before heading out.

What to Expect

Dogs are welcome.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cedar Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Cedar Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

The best time to visit Cedar Falls is during late spring or early summer when the water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt. Fall is also a great time to visit for cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow.

Safety Information

Hikers should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and watch for wildlife. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Check trail conditions before heading out, especially during winter or after heavy rain.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 1 hour ago Roaring

1,230 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

686 949 1.9k 2.8k

Based on 29 years of record

2.41 ft

Water depth at gauge

53°F

Cold

Bracing — limit time in water

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 53 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels.

Water Quality

8.2 mg/L

Dissolved Oxygen

Excellent

Supports aquatic life

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.

Madison River near Cameron MT

USGS 06040000

11.4 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 1,728 sq mi

Altitude: 5,145 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Cedar Falls is located within the Lewis and Clark National Forest. The trailhead can typically be accessed via local forest roads, but road conditions may vary depending on the season. Visitors are advised to check with the local ranger district for the most up-to-date access information.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors should plan to arrive early to secure a spot.

Elevation

9311 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.238539° N, -111.517187° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail may have uneven terrain. Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail can become muddy or slippery after rain.

This trail sits at 9,311 ft — the air is noticeably thinner

High Altitude

Some visitors experience headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath at this elevation. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and consider supplemental oxygen if you're coming from a lower altitude.

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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.

Boost Oxygen 10L Canister (2-Pack)

Portable supplemental oxygen for quick relief from headaches and shortness of breath.

Altitude Rx OxyBoost Complex

Antioxidant formula designed to support your body's natural altitude acclimation.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 3.0 miles and 500 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)

Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.

Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.

Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag

Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.

Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)

Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Mountain Lake Condo Unit 402D

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

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Nearby Campground

Bear Creek Cabin (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT)

6.0 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

Overview The Bear Creek Cabin, located at the base of the west slope of the Madison Range, allows visitors to experience southwestern Montana's vast wilderness areas, including wide open fields and a variety of nearby mountain ranges. Situated on the Trail Fork of Bear Creek, the cabin offers a scenic location to enjoy activities such as hunting, skiing, snowshoeing, as well as hiking and horseback riding on nearby trails. A smaller cabin, Bear Creek Bunkhouse, is located about 100 feet to the we

Book on Recreation.gov