Cataract Falls Hike

Though short, this easy hike packs some adventure with creek crossings, Beautiful mountain views, and an awesome waterfall! Cataract falls is located in the Rocky Mountain Front in the Lewis and Clark Forest, and has lots of water volume in late spring and early summer, and calm to peaceful trickles by late summer and fall.

I know of a few folks who ice climb here in the winter! How exciting!

The dirt road to get there, (Elk Creek Road) can be rough. Big dirt potholes and oftentimes in spring, a creek runs over the road.

The 0.25 mile long hike to the falls begins at the Elk Creek Trailhead where there’s a large gravel parking area. Elk Creek runs along the long edge of the parking area, and The hike to Elk Creek Pass is off to the right. To start the hike to Cataract falls, you are faced with your first adventure — fording Elk creek! You take off your shoes and roll up your pants, or find rocks to help you cross the creek. After crossing the creek you'll go forward for a bit then hang a left into the shaded, mossy trail that leads to the next crossing of Cataract Creek. You'll see and hear the Falls off to the right!

I recommend bringing bear spray because you’ll be in prime bear country. And always be careful when exploring near waterfalls. Rocks can be more slippery than they look!