Pinkham Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Pinkham Falls
Pinkham Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Montana, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. It is a lesser-known destination, offering visitors a peaceful retreat into nature.
The Setting
Pinkham Falls sits at 2,815 feet within Kootenai National Forest, in the hills of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Pinkham Falls (#424), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
PINKHAM FALLS #424
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.09 miTrail Description
The trail to Pinkham Falls is a short and relatively easy hike through a forested area. The path is well-trodden but may have uneven terrain in some sections. Visitors will enjoy views of the surrounding wilderness before reaching the falls.
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 Pinkham Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pinkham Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Kootenai National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Tobacco River, 6 miles away, not on Pinkham Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
79 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 10 years of record
2.41 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Tobacco River at Eureka, MT (10 km away).
Today
Moderate
81 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
87 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
81 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
78 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
82 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
84 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
86 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early 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 Rexford 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 119 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,811 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 233 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 265 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,811 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 119 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Pinkham Falls is located near the town of Rexford, Montana. Access typically involves driving along forest roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions. Directions should be confirmed with local resources or maps.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
2,815 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.839130° N, -115.171837° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may have roots or rocks. Bring insect repellent during warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make the trail slippery.
Where to Stay
Eureka Vacation Rental Steps to Creek and Fishing!
Ohana Ranch
Stunning Montana Retreat Hot Tub, On-Site Hiking!
Maggies Cabin - Enjoy a Slice of Paradise in Rexford Montana
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
Camp 32
1.1 miles away · 0 sites
The Camp 32 campground is located 15 miles southwest of Eureka off Pinkham Creek road 7182. The campground 8 sites with tables, fire rings. Accomodating up to a 20' rv. Amenities include potable water, vault toilets and a large open field.Camp 32 was a logging camp established in 1924 by the Bonners Ferry Lumber Company and operated for approximately 2 years. The land was acquired from early homesteader, Margaret Durall. The site included several out buildings. A company store and several small c
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Lake Koocanusa and the Kootenai National Forest are nearby and offer additional recreational opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally bears. Visitors should be bear-aware and carry bear spray.
Cities near Pinkham Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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