Are there fees or permits required for Paradise Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Paradise Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Paradise Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Paradise Falls.

Live Conditions · 2 ft³/s · About average

Paradise Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Paradise Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Paradise Falls.

Montana

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Also For 3 other waterfalls also named Paradise Falls, see below

Helena National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (4)

Ken Lund CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

300 ft

About Paradise Falls

Paradise Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked into the forested hills of Helena National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The short, satisfying outing draws hikers and nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat: the route is an out-and-back of roughly 2.0 miles round trip with about 300 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The falls themselves offer a quiet, scenic payoff amid tall trees and dappled light—an ideal half-day escape from nearby towns. The approach winds through mixed-conifer forest with occasional openings that suggest wider views. The trail alternates between dirt tread and rocky sections and is generally well-marked, but some stretches can become slippery after rain or snow, so sturdy footwear and basic caution are advised. For overnight planning note that the nearest developed camping is Granite Butte Lookout, about 12.38 km away.

The Setting

Paradise Falls sits at 5,377 feet within Helena National Forest, fed by the Tenmile Creek, in the high mountains of Montana.

Trail & Hike Details

2.0 mi distance 300 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

Length: ~2.0 miles round trip; Elevation gain: ~300 feet; Difficulty: Moderate; Type: Out-and-back. The route in Helena National Forest follows a forested tread that alternates between dirt and rocky surfaces and includes some moderate inclines. The path is well-marked, making it accessible to most day hikers, but expect slick spots when conditions are wet or icy. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, this short trail provides a straightforward, scenic approach to Paradise Falls.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil hike through Montana's natural landscapes, culminating in a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the area is typically quiet and uncrowded.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Paradise Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Paradise Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather.

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 Helena National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and along the trail, especially after rain. Carry bear spray and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may be hazardous during heavy rain or snow.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Moderate

Based on a USGS gauge 18.6 miles away

2 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

0 1 2 7

Based on 108 years of record

1.36 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 regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.

Tenmile Creek near Rimini MT

USGS 06062500

18.6 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 33 sq mi

Altitude: 4,850 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Tenmile Creek near Rimini MT (30 km away).

Moderate confidence

Moderate right now

2 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Moderate

2 cfs

8/10

Tomorrow

Moderate

2 cfs

8/10

Sun

Moderate

2 cfs

8/10

Mon

Moderate

2 cfs

8/10

Tue

Moderate

3 cfs

8/10

Wed

Moderate

2 cfs

8/10

Thu

Moderate

2 cfs

8/10

Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, 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 Marysville 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 147 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 5,401 feet above sea level.

The whole reach is steep: about 132 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 83 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Paradise Falls near Marysville, Montana, for comparison with the lidar view

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Paradise Falls near Marysville, Montana, showing about 147 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing north

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 5,401 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 147 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: North; Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.

Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Paradise Falls is located in a remote area of Montana. Access typically requires driving to a trailhead followed by a hike. Exact directions may vary depending on the starting point, so consulting a reliable map or GPS is recommended.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons.

Elevation

5,377 feet above sea level

Coordinates

46.751667° N, -112.463889° W

Land Management

Helena National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially if visiting after rain or during spring when trails may be muddy. Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby. Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike.

This trail sits at 5,377 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV radiation is roughly 22% stronger at this elevation than at sea level, and the dry air accelerates dehydration. Extra sun protection and fluids go a long way.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.

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.

Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof

Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.

TrailBuddy Trekking Poles

Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.

Where to Stay

Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby

Glamping Hipcamp

Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses

RV Rentals Outdoorsy

Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip

Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Nearby Campground

GRANITE BUTTE LOOKOUT

7.7 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

Overview The Granite Butte Lookout is located at 7,587 feet above sea level atop the Continental Divide of North America. The 15' by 15' lookout cabin sits atop a 20' tall wooden tower that was first built in 1932. The structure was rebuilt in 1962 and has been recently renovated. This tower was listed on the national register of historic lookouts in 2008 and offers guests a glimpse into the life of a Forest Service Lookout. Located near Lincoln, MT the lookout offers direct access to the Contine

Book on Recreation.gov