The best waterfall hikes and walks in Blue Mountain Recreation Site
4.6
(58)
961
hikers
8
hikes
Waterfall hiking trails in Blue Mountain Recreation Site offer diverse landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive area features varied terrain, including forested paths with ponderosa pine and cottonwoods, alongside meadows and views of the Bitterroot River. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, providing a setting for numerous trails that cater to different hiking preferences. The Bitterroot River flows along the base of the mountain, adding to the scenic appeal of the area.
Best waterfall hiking trails in Blueโฆ
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
(2)
4
hikers
23.1km
06:34
450m
450m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(4)
29
hikers
4.99km
01:28
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
5.23km
01:30
120m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
1.57km
00:34
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
122
hikers
11.4km
03:30
340m
350m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
The Loop Trail connects the Menzies and Alouette Trails, making a quick loop in Golden Ears Provincial Park. Though not particularly steep it should be noted that head in a clockwise direction will take you downhill, while counter-clockwise is uphill.
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This beautiful waterfall is tucked away along a trail of the same name. You can do a short out and back hike if you only want to see the falls, or you can combine the Menzies Trail with others in the park for a longer loop hike.
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While most park trails are steep and rugged, this one is remarkably flat and wide because it follows an old 1920s railway grade once used for logging.
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From here you get a good view of the 20-30 meter cascade that is Rolley Falls. It's not a super clear vantage point since it is still forested, but you can hear and see the falls well from this point and it is a good spot to stop and admire.
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These lower falls are easy to access, positioned right where the Rolley Falls Trail meets the river. They are worth stopping to admire or taking a rest at before continuing to the upper falls.
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This boardwalk on the west side of Rolley Lake crosses marshy wetlands as part of the loop trail around the lake. Rolley Lake itself is a calm, small lake where you can take in some tranquil scenery or canoe/kayak on the water. The lake is stocked, making it a popular fishing spot in the spring.
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The trailhead for Rolley Falls sits at the north end of the Rolley Lake Provincial Park campground. There is parking near the campground and beach picnic zones. From the trailhead, a moderately steep forest path leads up to viewpoints of both the lower and upper sections of Rolley Falls.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfall hiking trails are available in Blue Mountain Recreation Site?
The Blue Mountain Recreation Site offers a selection of 9 waterfall hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars.
Are there any easy waterfall hikes suitable for beginners or a relaxed outing?
Yes, there are several easy options. For a gentle loop through natural surroundings, consider the Lakeside Trail & Rolley Falls Trail loop โ Rolley Lake Provincial Park, which is about 5 kilometers long. Another accessible choice is the Rolley Falls Trailhead โ Rolley Falls loop from Rolley Lake Provincial Park, a shorter 2.4-kilometer path.
What are some more challenging waterfall hikes in the area?
For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, the West Canyon Trail Parking Lot loop from P2 is a difficult 23.2-kilometer trail with significant elevation gain through forested areas. Another challenging option is the West Canyon Trail Parking Lot loop from Gold Creek Parking, which covers 11.4 kilometers through varied terrain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on waterfall hikes in Blue Mountain Recreation Site?
The trails in Blue Mountain Recreation Site feature diverse terrain, including forested paths with ponderosa pine and cottonwoods, as well as open meadows. You'll also find views of the Bitterroot River, which flows along the base of the mountain, adding to the scenic beauty.
Are there any circular routes among the waterfall trails?
Yes, many of the waterfall trails are designed as loops. Examples include the Lakeside Trail & Rolley Falls Trail loop and the Rolley Falls Trailhead loop from Rolley Lake Provincial Park, offering convenient circular journeys back to your starting point.
What do other hikers say about the waterfall trails in Blue Mountain Recreation Site?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Blue Mountain Recreation Site, with an impressive average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the peaceful forested paths, and the scenic views of the Bitterroot River.
What are the best times of year to visit the waterfalls in Blue Mountain Recreation Site?
While waterfalls are beautiful year-round, spring offers the best opportunity for birdwatching along trails like the Maclay Flats Interpretive Trail, and the falls are often at their fullest due to snowmelt. Summer provides pleasant conditions for hiking, and fall brings vibrant foliage to the forested areas.
Are there any notable natural features or viewpoints along the waterfall trails?
Beyond the waterfalls themselves, the region offers expansive views of the Missoula Valley and the Sapphire and Bitterroot Mountains from higher elevations. The area is rich in natural beauty, with opportunities to spot wild columbine and various wildlife. The Bitterroot River also provides scenic vistas along its banks.
Is Blue Mountain Recreation Site generally accessible for different types of visitors?
The site aims for broad accessibility. While specific waterfall trails vary in difficulty, the broader Blue Mountain Recreation Site includes features like the Maclay Flats Interpretive Trail, which is accessible and offers pathways along the Bitterroot River, suitable for a wide range of visitors.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the waterfall hikes?
The Blue Mountain Recreation Site is home to diverse wildlife. Hikers might spot grouse, deer, and various bird species, especially during spring along the Maclay Flats Interpretive Trail. The area's rich flora also includes lady slippers and wild columbine.
Are there any other attractions or activities near the Blue Mountain Recreation Site?
Beyond hiking, the Blue Mountain Recreation Site offers opportunities for biking and horseback riding on its extensive trail system. The Bitterroot River, which runs along the base of the mountain, is popular for tubing or rafting in the summer. For more information on the broader recreation area, you can visit Visit Montana's page.
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