Aerial view · USGS
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Pintler Falls
Pintler Falls is a peaceful cascade tucked into the forested slopes of Montana’s Beaverhead National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Framed by dense timber and rugged terrain, the falls reward hikers with a quiet, scenic setting that feels remote but reachable. The most common approach uses the Pintler Creek Trail (USFS Trail #2037), making this a lovely half-day outing for moderately fit hikers. The route to the falls is typically described as a moderate, out-and-back hike of about 4.0 miles round trip with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain, though USFS GIS records list the Pintler Creek Trail length at 5.71 miles. Camping is not immediately adjacent to the falls; the nearest named campground in USFS records is McCart Lookout, about 21.23 km away, so plan accordingly for a day trip or backcountry stay. The setting and USFS management make Pintler Falls a great choice for those seeking a scenic, low-traffic stop on a classic Beaverhead National Forest hike.
The Setting
Pintler Falls sits at 6,417 feet within Beaverhead National Forest, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Pintler Creek (#2037), a 4.0-mile out-and-back trail over n/a. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain with grades of N/A.
USFS Trail
PINTLER CREEK #2037
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
5.71 miTrail Description
The trail to Pintler Falls follows the Pintler Creek Trail (USFS Trail #2037) through dense forest and along a creek, ending at the waterfall’s peaceful pool. Trail stats: out-and-back, commonly a 4.0-mile route with about 500 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate. USFS trail data lists Trail #2037 (PINTLER CREEK) as Class: N; Surface: N/A; Typical grade: N/A; USFS GIS length: 5.71 miles. Expect uneven footing and some rocky sections in places; the path is generally well-defined but carries the natural obstacles and variability of a forest trail managed by the U.S. Forest Service.
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 Pintler Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pintler Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Pintler Falls is late spring through early fall when the trail is clear of snow and the waterfall flow is at its peak.
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 Beaverhead National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry bear spray. The trail may be slippery in wet conditions, so exercise caution. Always stay on the marked trail.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Big Hole River bl Mudd Cr nr Wisdom MT (12 km away).
Today
Low
253 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
252 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
251 cfs
6/10Fri
Low
250 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
259 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
263 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
261 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early 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 Wisdom hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Pintler Falls Frozen?
Updated about 7 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Pintler Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 47°F to 31°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 253 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Montana.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain Around Pintler Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Pintler Falls is accessed via the West Fork Trailhead, which is located near the town of Philipsburg, Montana. From the trailhead, visitors must hike along the West Fork Rock Creek Trail to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the West Fork Trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
6,417 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.859923° N, -113.445617° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Bug spray is recommended during the summer months. Check trail conditions before visiting, especially in spring when snowmelt may make the trail muddy or slippery.
This trail sits at 6,417 ft above sea level
Elevated TrailUV 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.
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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.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
With 4.0 miles and 500 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.
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.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Where to Stay
The Forge Hotel BW Signature Collection
Mountain-View Anaconda Home w/ Gas Grill!
Pintler's Portal Hostel
22 Mi to Lost Trail Skiing: Serene Winter Retreat
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
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
MCCART LOOKOUT
13.2 miles away · 1 sites
Overview McCart Lookout is a historic tower located on McCart Peak, east of Sula. It has been restored to reflect a lookout of the 1940s, including the stove, furniture, dishes and other small touches. It offers a unique chance for visitors to camp on a mountain peak, on the border of the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness, in a rustic, old-time setting. The tower provides spectacular views of the surrounding western Montana wilderness. Recreation The trail to reach the tower continues south and joins t
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Nearby Attractions
The Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness offers numerous hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Nearby Philipsburg is a charming town with shops and restaurants.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds. Be aware of the possibility of encountering bears and take appropriate precautions.
Cities near Pintler Falls
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