Terrace Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Terrace Falls
Terrace Falls is a peaceful, picture-perfect cascade tucked into Montana’s forested landscape, popular with hikers seeking a calm day outing among mossy rocks and rushing water. The falls’ tiers and surrounding greenery make it a lovely spot for photos or a quiet break on the trail, and the approach rewards steady effort with increasingly scenic views as you near the drop. You reach Terrace Falls via a 4.0-mile out-and-back trail that climbs roughly 500 feet and is commonly rated moderate in difficulty. The route threads through dense forest with a mix of shaded stretches and occasional open clearings; the path is generally well-marked but hikers should be prepared for uneven footing and a few steeper sections.
The Setting
Terrace Falls sits at 6,447 feet along the Mission Creek, in the high mountains of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail length: 4.0 miles round-trip, elevation gain: ~500 feet, difficulty: moderate, trail type: out-and-back. The trail is primarily a single, well-defined route through forested terrain; while official USFS surface/grade/class data are not provided here, hikers can expect uneven tread and a handful of steeper pitches as the trail approaches the falls. The route alternates shaded wooded sections with brief open clearings, and signage is typically adequate — bring sturdy footwear and allow extra time for slower, rocky stretches.
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 Terrace Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Terrace Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Terrace Falls is during late spring or early summer when water flow is at its peak, and the surrounding vegetation is vibrant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Access roads and trails may close during winter due to snow.
Safety Information
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry bear spray. Watch for slippery rocks near the waterfall and stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Current Water Conditions
14 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 44 years of record
1.84 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Mission Creek ab reservoir nr St. Ignatius MT (22 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
2/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
2/10Mon
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
2/10Tue
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
2/10Thu
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
14 cfs
5/10Best window: Tue — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Ronan 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 285 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 6,468 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 133 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 212 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 6,468 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 285 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Terrace Falls is located in the Gallatin National Forest, Montana. Access typically involves driving to a trailhead near Big Sky, Montana, followed by a hike through forested trails.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
6,447 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.519935° N, -113.948992° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the return trip. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
This trail sits at 6,447 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.
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
Ninepipes Lodge
Secluded Bigfork Cabin with Canoes and Views!
Private Home With Amazing Mountain Views-Two Bedroom and Two Bath
Kwataqnuk Resort & Casino
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.
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OLD CONDON RANGER STATION
10.8 miles away · 1 sites
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Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Ousel Falls and the Big Sky Resort area, which offers additional hiking and outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds. Be cautious of bears and carry bear spray as a precaution.
Cities near Terrace Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Terrace Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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