Yaak Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Yaak Falls
Yaak Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Kootenai National Forest in northwestern Montana. It is a popular roadside attraction known for its powerful flow and scenic surroundings. The falls are part of the Yaak River and are easily accessible, making them a favorite spot for travelers and photographers.
The Setting
Yaak Falls sits at 2,438 feet within Kootenai National Forest, fed by the Yaak River, in the hills of Montana.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Yaak Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
USFS Trail
PROSPECT/GUNSIGHT #705
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.05 miTrail Description
The trail to Yaak Falls is extremely short and more of a walk from the parking area. Visitors can enjoy views of the falls from a nearby overlook or explore the area around the river for different perspectives.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Yaak Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Yaak Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is 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
Be cautious near the water, as the rocks can be slippery and the currents are strong. Watch for wildlife and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
81 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 69 years of record
2.88 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 Yaak River near Troy MT (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
81 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
87 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
87 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
82 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
84 cfs
2/10Tue
Low
95 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
99 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, 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 Sylvanite 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 125 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,439 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 108 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 260 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
- 2,439 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 125 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
Yaak Falls is located off Highway 508, approximately 9 miles northwest of Troy, Montana. The falls are easily accessible via a short drive from the highway.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the falls, which provides convenient access for visitors.
Elevation
2,438 feet above sea level
Coordinates
48.648557° N, -115.884903° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography. Be cautious near the water, as the rocks can be slippery. Bring a picnic to enjoy the serene surroundings.
Where to Stay
Dodge Peak Lodge
Sandman Motel
Evergreen Motel
Quiet Log Cabin • Gazebo • Near River & Trails
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
Kilbrennan Lake Campground
3.6 miles away · 0 sites
Kilbrennen Lake Campground is located northwest of Troy on Kilbrennen Lake road 2394. The Campground 7 sites with tables and fire rings. Campground roads and parking spurs are of native soil. Amenities include vault toilets and a boat ramp developed for smaller boats.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Kootenai Falls, Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area, and the town of Troy, Montana.
Wildlife
The area around Yaak Falls is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally bears. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Yaak Falls
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