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
66 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 42 years of record
2.50 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
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
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
6447 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
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Nearby Campground
OLD CONDON RANGER STATION
10.8 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Old Condon Ranger Station is open year-round, providing access to great recreation opportunities in every season. Visitors to the area enjoy fishing in the nearby Swan River, as well as hiking and exploring areas surrounding the cabin. Varieties of birds and wildlife make their home in the area. The cabin provides modern amenities and can be reached by vehicle. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring some of their own supplies to ensure a comfo
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Ronan, Montana
Wild Horse Hot Springs
Wild Horse Hot Springs sits on the Flathead Reservation in Sanders County, Montana, near Plains, at 2,756 feet, one of the lowe...
Green Springs
Green Springs flows at 79°F on the Flathead Reservation in Sanders County, Montana, at 2,813 feet — one of the lower-elevation ...
Camas Hot Springs
Camas Hot Springs flows at 113°F on the Flathead Reservation in western Montana, managed as tribal land with restricted or unkn...
Quinns Hot Springs
Quinns Hot Springs flows at 109 degrees Fahrenheit in the Clark Fork River valley of Sanders County, Montana, at a low elevatio...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Ronan, Montana on SoakingSprings.
Explore Montana springsAdditional Information
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
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