Crooked Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Crooked Falls
Crooked Falls is one of the scenic cascades in the string of Great Falls on the Missouri River in Montana, offering a restful riverside setting and striking views of the river's flow. Visitors often experience Crooked Falls as part of a sequence of waterfalls along this stretch; just upstream lies Rainbow Falls, a dramatic drop 47 feet high and 1,320 feet wide that spills over a sheer ledge of sandstone in the Kootenai Formation. Together these falls give a vivid sense of the river’s geology and the broad, rocky corridors that define this reach of the Missouri.
The Setting
Crooked Falls sits at 3,130 feet along the Missouri River, in the mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The River's Edge Trail to Crooked Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The well-maintained trail follows the Missouri River, offers frequent river views and clear signage, and presents generally gentle grades with some short, steeper sections—suitable for hikers with moderate fitness looking to experience the falls within a relatively short distance.
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 Crooked Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Crooked Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warm weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Stay on designated trails and avoid getting too close to the river's edge, as the currents can be strong and dangerous. Be cautious of changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
4,690 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
3.17 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 Missouri River near Great Falls MT (12 km away).
Today
Strong
4550 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
4512 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
4550 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
4435 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
4596 cfs
10/10Sat
Strong
4351 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
4382 cfs
10/10Best window: Today — strong flow, patchy smoke (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, 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 Malmstrom AFB hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Crooked Falls is accessible via the River's Edge Trail, which runs along the Missouri River near Great Falls, Montana. The trail provides access to several viewpoints of the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated trailheads along the River's Edge Trail, such as the Lewis and Clark Overlook or other nearby parking areas.
Elevation
3,130 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.536113° N, -111.196292° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. Early mornings or weekdays may offer a quieter experience. Binoculars or a camera are recommended for capturing the scenic views.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 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
Wingate by Wyndham Great Falls
The Gibson Hotel Great Falls, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Hotel Arvon
Comfort Inn Great Falls South
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls along the Great Falls of the Missouri River, such as Rainbow Falls and Black Eagle Falls. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is also nearby.
Wildlife
Visitors may spot birds, deer, and other wildlife along the trail. The area is known for its diverse bird species.
Cities near Crooked Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Crooked Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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