Deadwood Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Deadwood Falls
Deadwood Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Glacier National Park, Montana. It is known for its serene setting and the vibrant colors of the surrounding rocks and water, making it a popular spot for photography and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Deadwood Falls sits at 4,642 feet within Glacier National Park, in the mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 2.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Deadwood Falls is a relatively short and easy hike along the Gunsight Pass Trail. It features a well-maintained path through lush forest and offers occasional views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall itself is a small but beautiful cascade over colorful rocks, creating a tranquil and scenic spot to relax.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for most skill levels. The waterfall is not very tall but is surrounded by striking natural beauty. The area may be busy during peak summer months, so plan accordingly.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Deadwood Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Pets aren't allowed on trails, lakeshores or in the backcountry in Glacier National Park; leashed pets may stay in developed areas like roads and campgrounds.
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $35.00
Permit required
A reservation is required to access Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season (May through September).
🏊 Is There Swimming at Deadwood Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Deadwood Falls is during late spring through early fall when the trail is clear of snow and the waterfall has a steady flow from snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Glacier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be bear-aware and carry bear spray. Stay on the trail to avoid damaging the environment or getting lost. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Swiftcurrent Creek, 9.2 miles away, not on Deadwood Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
50 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 76 years of record
1.76 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 Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (15 km away).
Today
Roaring
54 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
56 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
53 cfs
6/10Wed
Strong
47 cfs
10/10Thu
Roaring
46 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
45 cfs
6/10Sat
Strong
45 cfs
10/10Best window: Wed — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to late 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 Saint Mary hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Deadwood Falls Frozen?
Updated about 3 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately 2 more freezing days forecast
Deadwood Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 48°F to 34°F. 2 freezing days are forecast, so ice may start to form.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 2 of the next 7
- Flow
- 52 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Montana.
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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 79 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 4,642 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 40 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 13 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,642 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 79 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Deadwood Falls is accessed via the Gunsight Pass Trail in Glacier National Park. The trailhead is located near the Jackson Glacier Overlook on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Jackson Glacier Overlook, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
4,642 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.666724° N, -113.637290° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can get warm in the summer. Wear sturdy shoes, as some sections of the trail may be uneven.
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This easy 2.6 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
St. Mary Village
Chief Mountain Cabins
Glacier Borealis - 27’ Glamping Trailer by Glacier
Walsh Cottage on the shores of Lake McDonald
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Avalanche Campground
8.3 miles away · 91 sites
Overview Avalanche campground is located in one of the most popular sections of Glacier National Park west of the Continental Divide. The campground accommodates tent and RV campers. However, only 50 sites will accommodate vehicle lengths up to 26 feet. All sites require a reservation. Most sites have a 6-month booking window with a good handful having a 4-day booking window. Recreation Avalanche is in one of the most popular sections of Glacier National Park west of the Continental Divide. Two p
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Jackson Glacier Overlook, St. Mary Lake, and other trails along Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Wildlife
Wildlife in the area may include deer, bears, and various bird species. Always carry bear spray and follow park guidelines for wildlife safety.
Cities near Deadwood Falls
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