While Montana has around 120 named waterfalls, many of them require a lengthy hike to reach. And while you may be up for that challenge at times, embarking on a tough trek is really no way to spend a hot summer day. Instead, take a short nature walk and enjoy the cool, calming mist from one of these majestic waterfalls.

1. Ousel Falls
Ousel Falls, Big Sky, MT 59730, USA
Stephen Visocan / alltrails
Stephen Visocan / alltrails
To reach Ousel Falls, all you have to do is hike about 3/4 of a mile down a path near the heart of Big Sky. When the trail splits at the end, take the straight path -- it leads to the base of the waterfall, which has a picnic area and a pool.
2. Grotto Falls
Hyalite Canyon, Montana 59718, USA
Marissa Salazar / alltrails
Dustyn Padderud / alltrails
Located in Bozeman’s scenic Hyalite Canyon, Grotto Falls has small pools at its base that are perfect for wading on a hot summer day. The trail is only 2.5 miles out and back, so you'll typically reach the falls in about 30 minutes.
3. Kootenai Falls
Rhonda Mclelland / alltrails
Michaellean Savage / alltrails
Kootenai Falls is one of Montana's most well-known waterfalls. You definitely won't want to swim in these waters, but being near the waterfall will cover you in a cool mist.
4. Running Eagle Falls
Amber Shoopman / alltrails
Running Eagle Falls, Montana 59434, USA
Faith Fleshman / alltrails
Heading to Glacier National Park this summer? Check out the half-mile Running Eagle Falls Trail, perfect for exploration, nature, picnics, and swimming.
5. Natural Bridge Falls
Pan Lucas / alltrails
Natural Bridge Falls Picnic Area, Big Timber, MT 59011, USA
Jeff Hartman / alltrails
You'll find Natural Bridge Falls at the end of a very short trail on the Boulder River in the Gallatin National Forest. The easy 1.4-mile hiking trail is well maintained and the new footbridge allows you to cross the river with ease.

There’s nothing like cooling off at the bottom of a rushing cascade of water at the end of a nature walk. Do you have a favorite Montana waterfall?

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Featured Addresses
Grotto Falls, Montana 59047, USA
Kootenai Falls, MT 59935, USA
Ousel Falls, Big Sky, MT 59730, USA
Natural Bridge Falls Picnic Area, Big Timber, MT 59011, USA
Running Eagle Falls, Montana 59434, USA