While the majority of our hiking trails here in Montana are best enjoyed in the summer, there are plenty of trails that can be hiked year-round. And while going on a winter hike might not seem overly appealing, it might help to know there’s a frozen waterfall awaiting you at the end. When cabin fever strikes, head to the Palisade Falls Trail for a visual treat. When it comes to winter hikes in Montana, you’ll agree that Palisade Falls is a must!

Palisade Falls is located near the Hyalite Reservoir just south of Bozeman.
Luke Weyrauch / alltrails.com
The waterfall itself is a towering cataract that drops more than 80 feet off a vertical rock wall at the southern base of Palisade Mountain.
Due to its remote location, this waterfall tends to freeze early in the season.
Mary St. Clair / alltrails.com
And it looks absolutely magical when it's surrounded by snow.
The Palisade Falls Trail is stunning in any season, but it's exceptionally beautiful in the winter.
Ashley Ann / alltrails.com
It's also much less crowded, and that's because the trail isn't as easy to reach. The road to the trailhead is closed during the winter, so you will have to park at the gate where the road past Hyalite Reservoir splits and hike the two miles to get to the trailhead.

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Fortunately, the trail itself is only about 1.2 miles long, so the extra walking won't add too much to your hike.
Adam Noel / alltrails.com
Bring your snowshoes with you. If there has been a recent snowfall, you'll definitely need them.
This is a very mellow trail without much elevation gain, so it's great for all skill levels.
Adam Noel / alltrails.com
That being said, if you're not experienced or you don't go snowshoeing regularly, you might want to bring someone more skilled along with you.
At the halfway point, you'll find the frozen waterfall.
Adam Noel / alltrails.com
Palisade Falls is one of Montana's most underrated treasures.
Hiking season doesn't have to end when winter begins.
Dustyn Padderud / alltrails.com
If you're willing to bundle up, bring your snowshoes and do a bit of extra hiking, you'll be treated to some visually stunning rewards. Of course, the waterfall is equally as enchanting during the summertime. Check out the beautiful footage of Palisade Falls below:

Have you ever hiked Palisade Falls? What did you think of this gorgeous, winter-friendly hiking trail in MT? Do you have a favorite winter hike in Montana? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! And, before embarking on your adventure, don’t forget to wear your coziest winter jacket.

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Hiking In Montana

Beth C. | January 15, 2024

What are some of the very best hiking trails in Montana?

Montana is an absolute treasure trove when it comes to hiking trails. Below you'll find a list of some of the very best hiking trails in Montana:

 

Curious to learn more about what makes the above hiking trails so memorable? Check out our ultimate guide to the very best hiking trails in Montana. Happy adventuring!

What are the best state parks in Montana?

Below you'll find a list of some of the best state parks to visit in Montana:

  • Pictograph Cave State Park, Billings
  • Brush Lake State Park, Dagmar
  • Hell Creek State Park, Jordan
  • Painted Rocks State Park, Darby
  • Giant Springs State Park, Great Falls
  • Wayfarers State Park, Bigfork
  • Whitefish Lake State Park, Whitefish
  • Thompson Falls State Park, Thompson Falls
  • Fort Owen State Park, Stevensville
  • Lost Creek State Park, Anaconda
  • Missouri Headwaters State Park, Three Forks
  • Makoshika State Park, Glendive

 

How many of these state parks in Montana have you visited? From camping to swimming, natural trails, and cultural centers, Montana's state parks really do have something for everyone.

 

 

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Palisade Falls, Montana 59047, USA