Are there fees or permits required for Star Falls?

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

Is swimming allowed at Star Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Star Falls.

Live Conditions · 197 ft³/s · Much lower than usual

Star Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Star Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Star Falls.

Montana

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Bitterroot National Forest NF · US Forest Service

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Star Falls

Star Falls is a peaceful, picture-postcard cascade tucked into the Bitterroot National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The waterfall rewards a short, moderate hike through mixed forest and native tread, making it a popular half‑day destination for hikers seeking a quiet scene without a long backcountry commitment. Access follows the USFS Buck Creek Trail (Trail #198), so expect a trail maintained within the national forest and signed on Forest Service maps. The hike to the falls is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate — a great option for families and day hikers comfortable with uneven ground and some uphill walking. If you want to extend your visit, McCart Lookout campground lies about 9.72 km away, providing nearby camping within the same national forest unit.

The Setting

Star Falls sits at 6,102 feet within Bitterroot National Forest, fed by the Big Hole River Bl Mudd Cr, in the high mountains of Montana.

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate hike follows Buck Creek (#198), a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 350 feet of elevation gain with grades of 12-20%. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).

USFS Trail

BUCK CREEK #198

Trail Class

Moderately Developed

Surface

Nat Native Material

Avg Grade

12-20%

USFS Segment

6.60 mi

Trail Description

Trail: BUCK CREEK (USFS Trail #198). Surface: NAT - native material; expect dirt tread with roots and occasional rock. Class: 2. Typical grade: 12–20% in steeper sections. USFS records GIS miles for the trail at 6.6 miles; the commonly used out-and-back route to Star Falls is about 2.4 miles round trip (moderate difficulty) with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain. Trail type: out-and-back. The native surface can be uneven and moderately steep in places, so good footwear and basic trekking awareness are recommended. The route is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Bitterroot National Forest and is suitable for day hikers; nearby McCart Lookout campground (≈9.72 km) offers a close option for overnight stays.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil environment with the sound of cascading water. The area may feature lush vegetation and opportunities for photography.

Accessibility

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

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Star Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Star Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall may have a stronger 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 Bitterroot National Forest for seasonal road closures.

Safety Information

The area may have uneven terrain, slippery rocks, and limited cell service. Visitors should exercise caution and inform someone of their plans before visiting.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 2 hours ago Low

Based on a USGS gauge 15.5 miles away

197 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Much lower than usual for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

200 268 1.3k 2.4k

Based on 27 years of record

2.85 ft

Water depth at gauge

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.

About This Gauge

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

Big Hole River bl Mudd Cr nr Wisdom MT

USGS 06024540

15.5 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 1,275 sq mi

Altitude: 5,880 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge Big Hole River bl Mudd Cr nr Wisdom MT (25 km away).

Moderate confidence

Low right now

197 cfs

→ Holding steady

Today

Moderate

225 cfs

4/10

Tomorrow

Moderate

218 cfs

5/10

Mon

Moderate

206 cfs

4/10

Tue

Moderate

213 cfs

4/10

Wed

Moderate

191 cfs

4/10

Thu

Moderate

168 cfs

4/10

Fri

Moderate

141 cfs

4/10

Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, snow (trip score 5/10).

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 Sula hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

The exact location of Star Falls may require local guidance or GPS navigation. It is recommended to research the area beforehand and consult local resources for directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is uncertain, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or designated areas if available.

Elevation

6,102 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.911863° N, -113.598061° W

Land Management

Bitterroot National Forest NF

Managed by USFS

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring a map or GPS device as the area may lack clear signage. Wear sturdy footwear and carry water and snacks.

This trail sits at 6,102 ft above sea level

Elevated Trail

UV radiation is roughly 24% 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 2.4 miles and 350 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

MCCART LOOKOUT

6 miles away · 1 sites

Reservable

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

Book on Recreation.gov