Florence Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
10.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Florence Falls
Florence Falls tumbles through a pocket of forested relief in Glacier National Park, offering a peaceful reward tucked into the park’s glacially carved landscape. Managed by the National Park Service, the falls sit amid the rugged mountains and alpine forests that define Glacier — a park established in 1910 and celebrated for its dramatic ridgelines, cirques, and clear mountain streams. The setting is quietly photogenic, making the falls a great stop for hikers who enjoy shaded trails and mossy rock outcrops. The waterfall is reached via a moderate out-and-back route that suits day hikers and families who are comfortable with some uphill walking. Avalanche Campground is nearby (about 9.67 km away), providing a convenient campsite for overnight stays and early starts to beat the crowds. With the park’s sweeping scenery as a backdrop, Florence Falls makes for an inviting short excursion while exploring Glacier National Park’s famed terrain.
The Setting
Florence Falls sits at 4,908 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Florence Falls is an out-and-back route roughly 2.4 miles long with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. This route is managed within Glacier National Park by the National Park Service; specific trail surface, grade, or official trail class details are not specified in the provided park data. Hikers can expect a typical mountain-park outing—steady uphill sections on the return—with clear trail signage in National Park Service-maintained areas. Avalanche Campground lies about 9.67 km from the trailhead for those planning to camp nearby.
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 Florence Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Florence Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Florence Falls is in late spring or early summer when the waterfall is at its fullest 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. Winter access may be limited. Check with Glacier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and watch for wildlife, including bears. Carry bear spray and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals. Check trail conditions before your visit, especially during spring and fall when the trail may be muddy or icy.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (17 km away).
Today
Low
57 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
57 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
52 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
48 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
54 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
58 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
57 cfs
4/10Best window: Sun — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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.
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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 262 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 4,954 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 328 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 82 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,954 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 262 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Florence Falls is accessed via the Blodgett Canyon Trailhead, located near Hamilton, Montana. The trailhead is reachable by car, and directions are well-marked from the town of Hamilton.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Blodgett Canyon Trailhead. The lot may fill up during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
4,908 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.650669° N, -113.692797° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be rocky and has some elevation gain. Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Check weather conditions before heading out, especially in spring and fall when the trail may be muddy or slippery.
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
6 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
Blodgett Canyon Overlook, Lake Como, and the town of Hamilton, Montana.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally bears. Be prepared and carry bear spray.
Cities near Florence Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Florence Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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