
Palisade Falls Bozeman Montana
A stunning waterfall with unique basalt columns, easily accessible via a paved trail in Montana's scenic Hyalite Canyon.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Palisade Falls Bozeman Montana
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning waterfall with unique basalt columns, easily accessible via a paved trail in Montana's scenic Hyalite Canyon.
"The hike to the waterfall was worth it. The scenery was beautiful and the pictures and videos don't do justice."

🚗 Parking can fill up!
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag a spot. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service is unreliable in Hyalite Canyon. Ensure your GPS is ready before you leave Bozeman.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Palisade Falls
Hyalite Recreation Area
An 80+ foot waterfall cascading over unique basalt columns. A must-see natural wonder!

Paved, Accessible Trail
Trailhead to the falls
Enjoy a smooth, paved path perfect for strollers and all abilities. Easy access to breathtaking views.

Columnar Basalt Formations
At the base of the falls
Marvel at the striking geometric patterns of the basalt cliffs surrounding the waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Easy Access to a Stunning Waterfall
Prepare for Hyalite Canyon
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking can fill up!
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag a spot. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service is unreliable in Hyalite Canyon. Ensure your GPS is ready before you leave Bozeman.
👨👩👧👦 Stroller-friendly path
The trail is paved and mostly smooth, making it great for families with young children.
📸 Capture the basalt
Don't just focus on the waterfall; the unique columnar basalt formations are incredibly photogenic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking can fill up!
Arrive early, especially on weekends, to snag a spot. Consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
🗺️ Download offline maps
Cell service is unreliable in Hyalite Canyon. Ensure your GPS is ready before you leave Bozeman.
👨👩👧👦 Stroller-friendly path
The trail is paved and mostly smooth, making it great for families with young children.
📸 Capture the basalt
Don't just focus on the waterfall; the unique columnar basalt formations are incredibly photogenic.
💧 Check water flow
Flow varies seasonally. Summer often brings good volume, but check recent conditions if possible.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palisade Falls for its stunning beauty and incredible accessibility. The paved, short trail makes it a favorite for families and those seeking an easy outdoor experience. While parking can be challenging during peak times, the breathtaking waterfall and unique basalt formations make the trip well worth it.
"Palisade falls is beautiful and a very short walk from the parking lot. Most of the path is paved. The views at the top are nice."
Jayden Ackerman
"The hike to the waterfall was worth it. The scenery was beautiful and the pictures and videos don't do justice. Be sure to download the map first because there is no internet for GPS."
superfluous2004
"Beautiful! Well-maintained walkways."
Rebecca McCright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palisade Falls is located in Hyalite Canyon, about a 45-minute drive south of Bozeman, Montana. Take Hyalite Canyon Road (Forest Service Road 62) south. The trailhead is well-marked and has a parking area.
Currently, there is no public transportation directly to Palisade Falls. A personal vehicle is the most convenient way to reach the trailhead.
Hyalite Canyon Road is paved for most of the way to the Palisade Falls trailhead. The last section of the road to the parking lot is gravel but generally safe for most vehicles.
Yes, Hyalite Canyon is home to other beautiful spots like Grotto Falls, numerous hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints. It's a great area for a full day of exploration.
A recreation pass may be required for parking in the Hyalite Recreation Area, especially during peak seasons. Check current Forest Service regulations before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for Palisade Falls itself, but a recreation pass is typically required for parking in the Hyalite Recreation Area. These can often be purchased at the trailhead or nearby ranger stations.
Palisade Falls is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, road access to Hyalite Canyon can be restricted in winter due to snow.
No, Palisade Falls is a natural site and does not require advance ticket bookings. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
While the falls can freeze over in winter, access to Hyalite Canyon may be limited or require a 4WD vehicle due to snow. Check road conditions with the Gallatin National Forest before planning a winter visit.
It's advisable to have cash on hand for parking passes, as some areas may not accept credit cards. Alternatively, check if passes can be purchased online or at a ranger station beforehand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Palisade Falls is a short and easy 1.2 miles round-trip. It's a quick walk from the parking lot to the waterfall.
No, the trail is considered easy. It's mostly paved and has minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for most fitness levels and families.
Dogs are generally allowed in the Gallatin National Forest, including Hyalite Canyon, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Always clean up after your pet.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Layers are always a good idea in Montana's mountain climate, as weather can change quickly.
Yes, the trail to Palisade Falls is paved and largely wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors with mobility challenges.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but the waterfall's mist can create interesting effects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and basalt formations. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light.
Absolutely! The drive through Hyalite Canyon offers numerous scenic pull-offs and viewpoints. The surrounding mountains and forests are also beautiful subjects.
Drone usage is subject to regulations in National Forests. Check with the Gallatin National Forest for current rules and restrictions before flying your drone.
The combination of the cascading water, the striking columnar basalt cliffs, and the lush forest provides a unique and dramatic photographic subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the falls, Hyalite Canyon offers opportunities for simple exploration, like skipping stones in the creek or enjoying a picnic. The drive itself is scenic, providing a pleasant experience for the whole family. It's a perfect introduction to Montana's natural beauty without requiring strenuous effort.
🚶♀️ Visitors Seeking Easy Hikes
Even those with limited mobility or who prefer a leisurely stroll will find this trail accommodating. The accessibility ensures that a wider range of visitors can enjoy the beauty of Palisade Falls. It’s a fantastic option for a quick nature fix or a peaceful moment surrounded by stunning scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Hyalite Canyon
During the summer months, Hyalite Canyon buzzes with activity. Popular spots like Grotto Falls, another easily accessible waterfall, are often visited alongside Palisade Falls. For those seeking more challenging hikes, trails leading to lakes like Emerald Lake or Hyalite Lake offer rewarding backcountry experiences. In winter, the canyon transforms into a wonderland for ice climbing and snowshoeing, with frozen waterfalls becoming a major draw.
Remember that Hyalite Canyon is a natural environment. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, potential wildlife encounters (including bears), and limited cell service. Downloading offline maps and carrying bear spray are highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable visit.
The Geology of Palisade Falls
The formation of these basalt columns is a slow and fascinating process. As the molten rock cools, it shrinks, and fractures form. These fractures typically propagate in three directions, leading to the formation of polygonal columns, most commonly hexagonal. The sheer scale and regularity of the columns at Palisade Falls make it a remarkable natural display.
Visitors are encouraged to admire the basalt formations from a safe distance and avoid touching or climbing on them to preserve their natural integrity. The interplay of water, rock, and surrounding vegetation creates a picturesque scene that photographers and nature lovers alike will appreciate.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit