Gros Ventre Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Gros Ventre Falls
Gros Ventre Falls is a scenic, lesser-known waterfall tucked within Glacier National Park and managed by the National Park Service. The setting is quietly beautiful—wooded approach and the sound of falling water make it an inviting spot for hikers who prefer a peaceful outing away from the park’s busiest corridors. The route to the falls is a moderate, out-and-back outing that suits day-hikers comfortable with some uphill. Before heading out, check current trail conditions and park alerts with Glacier National Park (NPS) to confirm access and any seasonal advisories.
The Setting
Gros Ventre Falls sits at 4,780 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Out-and-back trail, 2.4 miles total with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The provided park data does not specify surface type, grade percentages, or formal trail class, so hikers should plan for typical mountain trail conditions and bring sturdy footwear, water, and layers. Managed by Glacier National Park (NPS); check park resources for parking, signage, and any trail updates before your trip.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with the sound of cascading water. The area may be surrounded by forested landscapes and wildlife.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Gros Ventre Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Gros Ventre Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be higher and the weather more favorable.
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
Trail conditions may vary, and the area may have uneven or slippery terrain. Visitors should exercise caution and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
47 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
1.70 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 Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (16 km away).
Today
Low
47 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
45 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
46 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
47 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
51 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
49 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
47 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Babb 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 measures about 135 feet of descent through Gros Ventre Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 4,795 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 96 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 35 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and 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
- 4,795 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 135 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Gros Ventre Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or designated areas if available.
Elevation
4,780 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.930173° N, -113.740736° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the location may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and prepare for uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Aspen Village
Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort
St. Mary Village
Prince of Wales Hotel
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
MANY GLACIER CAMPGROUND
9.7 miles away · 110 sites
Overview The Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The campground is located about 22 miles from the town of St. Mary and the east entrance to Glacier National Park. Babb, Montana, is the closest community to the Many Glacier Campground and is located approximately 12 miles east of the campground. Babb has a general store, gas station, several restaurants and an U.S. Post Office. Cell phone coverage is not availa
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but the surrounding area may offer additional hiking trails and scenic views.
Wildlife
The area may be home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of wildlife.
Cities near Gros Ventre Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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