The Ultimate Southern Montana Waterfalls Road Trip

Who’s up for a fun road trip? Montana has the most beautiful natural wonders, including over 120 named waterfalls, so we’ve mapped out a way for you to see some of our great state’s best falls in this Southern Montana waterfalls road trip. Since the state is so large, it’s best to explore one region at a time. This trip focuses on the southern part of the state and includes only Montana waterfalls easily accessible by car or a reasonably short hike. This way, you and your companions can see them all in one day, though we recommend taking this trip over a weekend.

The journey is mapped out in Google Maps for your convenience. Use it as a guideline for your most gorgeous road trip yet. Without further adieu, let's check out some of the best waterfalls near you in Montana:

1. Ousel Falls

Start your journey with a stop at Ousel Falls, which sits at the end of an easy 0.75-mile hiking trail. If you begin early enough, you can catch the sunrise along the way.

2. HooDoo Cascade

The HooDoo Cascade waterfall is located a few hundred feet from Lava Lake. The falls are situated between Sagebrush Point and Jumbo Mountain, about 25 miles outside Bozeman. This is a good stopping point between Ousel Falls and the next waterfall destination.

3. Palisades Falls

Hungry? Take Highway 191 North to the Palisades Falls picnic area, a relaxing place to enjoy a nice meal … and see a waterfall, of course.

4. Grotto Falls

Grotto Falls is just a three-mile drive and a half-mile hike from Palisades Falls. The breathtaking scenery in this area makes the walk worth it, and the stunning waterfall is a nice bonus.

5. Arch Falls

If you have the time, hike the 1.2 miles south of the Hyalite Creek trailhead and you’ll find Arch Falls. A trail sign will announce your arrival, so you know you’re in the right place. This walk isn’t quite as easy as the others, so only attempt it if you’re up for it.

6. Champagne Falls

If your waterfall road trip in Southern Montana will last two days or more, it’s worth continuing your walk another 1.4 miles past Arch Falls to enjoy the beauty of Champagne Falls. The water pours 80 feet onto the shoulders of a huge black rock, and the entire area feels serene.

7. Cascade Falls

This stop signifies the home stretch of your journey. This is one beautiful stop — make sure you take your time here and don't forget your camera.

8. Woodbine Falls

Your tour of the best waterfalls in Southern Montana will end on a high note if you make your last stop Woodbine Falls. An easy hike on a well-marked trail takes you straight to the waterfall, which is located in the picturesque Custer National Forest.

Are there any waterfalls we missed on this road trip route? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. Now, grab some of our favorite road trip snacks and hit the road. Who will you bring on this Southern Montana waterfalls road trip, and what will be on your playlist?