Columbia Mountain Waterfall Hike

by Haymoon Resort

Columbia Mountain Waterfall Hike

by Haymoon Resort

Haymoon Employees share a recent summer adventure! A two mile hike to a serene and gorgeous waterfall that is located on Columbia Mountain. Actually, there are a few small waterfalls along the trail. However, the largest waterfall was the key reason for our hike.

The trailhead for this hike is located 13 miles and about 20 minutes from Haymoon Resort. The turn off is an unmarked dirt road. Take the first right after the House of Mystery building. Follow this road until you see the Columbia Mountain Trailhead and parking area on the left, this is about 0.2 miles from the highway turn off.

This hike is a bit of a climb, but has wonderful views of Columbia Falls, Whitefish, and other parts of the valley. Our goal was going to the waterfall, but you can make a much longer (and more challenging) hike of it by continuing to climb to the top of the mountain. This is an out and back hike. 

About 2.5 miles into the hike you will have to cross a stream. Either by forging across the water, balancing on floating logs or crossing a large fallen tree. After testing the methods, we suggested crossing using the fallen tree as we preferred not to get our feet wet. (See Photo #1 below)

Immediately after the crossing of the stream, look to the right of the cascading water. There is a very minimal and almost unnoticeable trail that is parallel to the water. (See Photo #2 below.We missed this trail originally and added an additional 3 miles to our hike).

Follow this trail until you reach the magnificent waterfall. (See Photo #3 below) For a small group there has been room to enjoy a small picnic lunch. While listening to the roar of the falls and getting an occasional misting of water. The photos speak for themselves, but get out and enjoy a true Montana adventure!

** As much as we enjoyed our hike we suggest checking the daily weather conditions, as well as wearing bug spray.**

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