Paiota Falls
Montana • Glacier National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
About Paiota Falls
Paiota Falls is a lesser-known waterfall tucked into the Atsina Lake basin of Glacier National Park, managed by the National Park Service. Atsina Lake sits just to the west of Pyramid Peak, and Wikipedia notes that the lake basin contains several waterfalls including Paiota Falls, Atsina Falls, and the Mokowanis Cascade. The falls offer a quiet, scenic stop amid the park’s alpine forest and peaks — a rewarding destination for hikers who prefer less-crowded features in Glacier's high-country. Access to Paiota Falls is typically made while visiting the Atsina Lake area. The approach is a moderate outing — a 2.4-mile round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain — that works well as a short day hike to explore the lake and nearby cascades. Because detailed surface, grade, and formal trail class information are not documented in the available data, hikers should consult Glacier National Park resources before heading out and be prepared for variable mountain conditions.
The Setting
Paiota Falls sits at 6,191 feet within Glacier National Park, fed by the Swiftcurrent Creek, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Route: 2.4 miles total (out-and-back) Elevation gain: ~350 feet Difficulty: Moderate Trail type: Out-and-back Surface/grade/class: Not documented in the available data Notes: Located within Glacier National Park (NPS) in the Atsina Lake basin near Pyramid Peak; the trail is commonly used to reach Atsina Lake and the nearby waterfalls, including Paiota Falls. Check Glacier National Park trail information for current conditions before hiking.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a waterfall surrounded by forested landscapes. The area may be less crowded due to its relative obscurity.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Paiota Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Paiota Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as the waterfall may have higher flow 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 Glacier National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Trail conditions may vary, and the area may be slippery near the waterfall. Wildlife encounters are possible, so carry bear spray and follow safety guidelines.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Swiftcurrent Creek at Many Glacier MT (16 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
50 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
56 cfs
3/10Thu
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 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 310 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 6,173 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 51 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 264 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, the falls 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
- 6,173 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 310 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
The exact location and directions to Paiota Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local guides or resources for accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near Paiota Falls is unclear. Visitors may need to park along nearby roads or designated areas if available.
Elevation
6,191 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.872121° N, -113.849759° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the location is not well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for varying trail conditions.
This trail sits at 6,191 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV radiation is roughly 25% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.
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Coppertone Sport SPF 50 Sunscreen
UV intensity jumps ~4% per 1,000 ft — at this elevation you can burn in half the time.
Sun Bum SPF 30 Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Lips have almost no natural UV protection and burn fast in thin, dry mountain air.
Liquid I.V. Electrolyte Packets
You lose moisture ~2x faster at elevation — electrolytes help you absorb water efficiently.
ROCKNIGHT Polarized UV400 Sunglasses
High-altitude glare off rock and water is intense — UV400 lenses block 99%+ of UVA/UVB.
Where to Stay
Aspen Village
Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort
Prince of Wales Hotel
Bayshore Inn & Spa
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
9.4 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
Other natural attractions in Montana, such as Glacier National Park, may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may host a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and potentially bears. Visitors should take standard precautions.
Cities near Paiota Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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