Crooked Falls Overlook
Witness Crooked Falls, a unique cascade on the Missouri River, best viewed after rain. Explore via the scenic River's Edge Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fullest water flow
Crooked Falls Overlook
Best Time
Fullest water flow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness Crooked Falls, a unique cascade on the Missouri River, best viewed after rain. Explore via the scenic River's Edge Trail.
"Worth walking out to see the Crooked Falls, though they are only a shadow of what they were."
Check Water Levels First
Falls can be dry in summer. Visit after rain for best views!
Combine with Rainbow Falls
Easily accessible from Rainbow Falls Viewing Area. Walk the dirt trail for a closer look.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crooked Falls Overlook
Adjacent to Rainbow Falls Viewing Area
Witness the unique cascade of Crooked Falls, a testament to nature's power, even with its altered flow.
Rainbow Falls Scenic Overlook
Missouri River
Enjoy panoramic views of the Missouri River and two of Great Falls' five falls, including Rainbow Falls and the dam.
River's Edge Trail
Along the Missouri River
A scenic path perfect for walking, biking, or driving to various overlooks, connecting Rainbow Falls and Crooked Falls.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessing the View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Water Levels First
Falls can be dry in summer. Visit after rain for best views!
Combine with Rainbow Falls
Easily accessible from Rainbow Falls Viewing Area. Walk the dirt trail for a closer look.
Trail Access Options
Drive, hike, or bike the River's Edge Trail to reach the overlook.
Autumn Scenery
Beautiful fall colors enhance the surrounding landscape.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Water Levels First
Falls can be dry in summer. Visit after rain for best views!
Combine with Rainbow Falls
Easily accessible from Rainbow Falls Viewing Area. Walk the dirt trail for a closer look.
Trail Access Options
Drive, hike, or bike the River's Edge Trail to reach the overlook.
Autumn Scenery
Beautiful fall colors enhance the surrounding landscape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Crooked Falls to be a nice, though somewhat diminished, sight due to damming. The short walk from Rainbow Falls is recommended for a closer look, and the surrounding River's Edge Trail offers scenic views, especially in autumn. Some visitors express disappointment if expecting a powerful, undammed waterfall.
"The Crooked Falls are nice, though they are only a shadow of what they were before they were dammed. Also the dams diminish the view somewhat. Nevertheless it's worth walking out on the dirt trail from the Rainbow Falls Viewing Area to see the Crooked Falls."
Steve Ringer
"Disappointing. Dry falls"
Angela Smyth
""
Fariha Tasnim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The overlook is accessible via the River's Edge Trail. You can drive, hike, or bike to it. It's located near the Rainbow Falls Viewing Area in Great Falls, Montana.
Parking is available at the Rainbow Falls Viewing Area, which serves as a convenient starting point for accessing the Crooked Falls Overlook via a short trail.
Public transport options to the immediate vicinity of the overlook are limited. Driving or using ride-sharing services is generally recommended.
The River's Edge Trail provides a scenic route. If driving, follow signs for Rainbow Falls Viewing Area, and then take the dirt trail to Crooked Falls.
Parts of the River's Edge Trail are paved, while other sections, like the path to Crooked Falls from Rainbow Falls, are dirt.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Crooked Falls Overlook. It is a publicly accessible area.
The overlook is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no specific posted operating hours, but it's best to visit when there is sufficient light for viewing.
The River's Edge Trail is free to access and use for walking, biking, and driving to various points.
Visitors should be mindful of the natural environment and any posted signage. Respect private property and the integrity of the falls area.
While accessible year-round, the visual appeal of the falls is highly dependent on water flow, which is best in spring or after significant rainfall.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Walk the short dirt trail from the Rainbow Falls Viewing Area for the closest view. Be aware that the falls can be diminished due to damming.
You can see Crooked Falls, which are part of the Missouri River's cascades. The overlook also offers views of the dam and surrounding landscape.
The trail from Rainbow Falls Viewing Area to Crooked Falls is a short, relatively easy dirt path. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the main Rainbow Falls Viewing Area, which is a short distance from the Crooked Falls Overlook.
Nearby attractions include Rainbow Falls, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and the Great Falls of the Missouri River.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon light offers softer shadows and more dramatic lighting for photography. Golden hour is particularly beautiful.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expanse of the falls and river. A tripod can help with longer exposures, especially if water flow is low.
The dirt trail leading from Rainbow Falls provides several vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture the unique cascade.
Drone regulations vary. Always check local FAA guidelines and any posted restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
Focus on the textures of the rocks and the surrounding landscape. Consider using a polarizing filter to enhance colors and reduce glare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited directly at the overlook. The River's Edge Trail offers more space for kids to move around, and the views of the river can be captivating. Remember to check water levels beforehand, as dry falls might be less engaging for younger children.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Hikers
Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially for the dirt path to Crooked Falls. The trail offers varied terrain, from paved sections to natural surfaces, providing a pleasant experience for all levels of fitness. Enjoy the natural beauty and the impressive river views.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Falls' Flow
This alteration means that expectations should be managed. While still a point of interest, Crooked Falls may not present the dramatic spectacle one might imagine from an undammed waterfall. The nearby Rainbow Falls and the dam itself are also key features of the viewing experience.
For those interested in the natural history and the impact of human intervention on waterways, Crooked Falls offers a unique perspective. It's a reminder of how landscapes can be shaped and transformed over time.
Exploring the River's Edge Trail
Starting from the Rainbow Falls Viewing Area, a short, unpaved path leads directly to Crooked Falls. This segment is generally easy to navigate, making it accessible for most visitors. The trail also provides opportunities to appreciate the broader scenery of the river and the surrounding Montana landscape, especially vibrant during the autumn months.
Beyond Crooked Falls, the River's Edge Trail connects to other significant points of interest, allowing for a more comprehensive exploration of the Great Falls area. It's an excellent resource for understanding the natural and historical significance of the Missouri River.
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