Are there fees or permits required for Passage Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Passage Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Passage Falls.

Live Conditions · 7,250 ft³/s · Higher than usual

Passage Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Passage Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Passage Falls.

Montana

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Gallatin National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Photo Credits (5)

Matt Lavin CC BY-SA 2.0 · Flickr

musical photo man CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

5.6 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

800 ft

About Passage Falls

Passage Falls tumbles through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness in southwestern Montana, set within Gallatin National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls are a popular, picturesque goal for day hikes — a rewarding cascade reached via the USFS Passage Creek Trail (Trail #59) that threads creekside forest and mountain scenery. The setting feels remote yet remains accessible on a moderate hike, making it a favorite for photographers and hikers wanting a classic wilderness waterfall. The approach is an out-and-back route of roughly 5.6 miles with about 800 feet of elevation gain (USFS GIS records list Passage Creek Trail #59 at 6.05 miles). The Forest Service maintains the corridor; the trail tread is native material and the route is rated Class 2. For campers, Mill Creek Cabin campground sits about 6.47 km away, offering a nearby option if you want to turn the visit into an overnight backcountry outing.

The Setting

Passage Falls sits at 6,440 feet within Gallatin National Forest, fed by the Yellowstone River, in the high mountains of Montana.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate hike follows Passage Creek (#59), a 5.6-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 800 feet of elevation gain. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).

USFS Trail

PASSAGE CREEK #59

Trail Class

Moderately Developed

Surface

Native Material

USFS Segment

6.05 mi

Trail Description

USFS Passage Creek Trail (Trail #59) is a Class 2, native-surface out-and-back that follows Passage Creek through forested terrain en route to Passage Falls. The route is approximately 5.6 miles long with roughly 800 feet of climbing (USFS GIS length listed as 6.05 miles) and is generally described as moderate in difficulty. Expect a natural tread of native materials and a steady but not steep grade for most of the hike; the trail terminates at the base of the waterfall where you can pause for views and photos. Mill Creek Cabin campground is the nearest established camping option, about 6.47 km away.

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 Passage Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Passage Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Passage Falls, as the waterfall is most active during this period. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may require snowshoes or skis for access.

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 Gallatin National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.

Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry bear spray. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall and avoid getting too close to the edge.

Current Water Conditions

Updated 28 minutes ago Roaring

Based on a USGS gauge 17 miles away

7,250 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Higher than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1.9k 2.5k 6.0k 8.8k

Based on 119 years of record

4.97 ft

Water depth at gauge

50°F

Very cold

Expect numbness within minutes

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.

Yellowstone River at Corwin Springs MT

USGS 06191500

17.0 mi from waterfall

Drainage: 2,615 sq mi

Altitude: 5,079 ft

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Passage Falls is accessed via the Passage Creek Falls Trailhead, located off Mill Creek Road near Livingston, Montana. The trailhead is reachable by car, but the road may be rough in certain sections, especially during wet weather.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking area at the Passage Creek Falls Trailhead. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.

Elevation

6440 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.242160° N, -110.497147° W

Land Management

Gallatin National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be muddy or slippery in places. Bring insect repellent during summer months, and carry plenty of water. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail may be more difficult after heavy rain or snow.

This trail sits at 6,440 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV radiation is roughly 26% 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 5.6 miles and 800 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

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Nearby Campground

MILL CREEK CABIN

4.0 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

Overview Mill Creek Cabin was built in 1927 as a temporary lodging for traveling Forest Service personnel. The cabin can be accessed by vehicle year-round, though a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety. This cabin offers rustic accommodations with limited amenities, so guests need to bring most of their own supplies and gear for a comfortable stay.Recreation Hikers and equestrians can access trailheads that lead into the Absa

Book on Recreation.gov