Lost Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Lost Creek Falls
Lost Creek Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into the forested hills of western Montana, nestled within the Lolo National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls spill over rocky ledges into a peaceful pool, surrounded by mixed conifer and understory that makes it an inviting destination for a half-day outing. Hikers on the route are rewarded with a serene, photogenic setting that feels a world away from busy trailheads. Access to the falls follows the USFS LOST LAKE Trail (Trail #112). While the most commonly described route to reach the waterfall is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain, official USFS GIS data lists LOST LAKE Trail #112 at approximately 3.97 miles. Either way, the trail is a classic Lolo National Forest hike—wooded, steadily graded, and managed by the Forest Service—so come prepared for a moderate effort and enjoy a relatively quiet slice of Montana forest scenery.
The Setting
Lost Creek Falls sits at 5,046 feet within Lolo National Forest, fed by the St. Regis River, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Lost Lake (#112), a 0.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
LOST LAKE #112
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
3.97 miTrail Description
Trail: LOST LAKE (USFS Trail #112). Type: out-and-back. Commonly hiked distance to the falls: ~2.4 miles round-trip with ~350 ft elevation gain; USFS GIS listing: 3.97 miles. Difficulty: moderate. Surface: native material. USFS class: 3. Typical grade: 12–20%. Expect a natural tread through forest with steady uphill sections; good footwear is recommended for traction on native-surface tread and rocky approaches near the falls.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Lost Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $7.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lost Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is most active during these seasons due to snowmelt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow. Check with Lolo National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall, especially after rain. Watch for wildlife and stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the environment.
Current Water Conditions
89 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 49 years of record
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 St. Regis River near St. Regis, MT (20 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
95 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
92 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
84 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
84 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
82 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
90 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
93 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, peaking in May.
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 St. Regis 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 196 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 5,107 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 174 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 116 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 5,107 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 196 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
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
Lost Creek Falls is located within Lost Creek State Park, near Anaconda, Montana. The falls can be accessed via Lost Creek Road, which is a well-maintained gravel road leading to the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the trailhead within Lost Creek State Park.
Elevation
5,046 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.114930° N, -115.117412° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy in spring or after rain. Bring water and a camera to capture the scenic views. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking.
Where to Stay
Big Sky Motel
Peaceful Superior Home w/ Fire Pit & Mtn View
The Lodge at Forest Grove
Rustic Cabin Rental in the Tranquil Montana Wilderness near Missoula
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 Attractions
Lost Creek State Park offers additional hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities to view wildlife. The nearby town of Anaconda has historical sites and local dining options.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, birds, and other small wildlife. Visitors may also spot mountain goats on the cliffs surrounding the park.
Cities near Lost Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Lost Creek Falls
4 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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