Sluice Boxes State Park - Hike and Cliff Jump

Imagine being on an old railroad as it skirts around the cliffs of the Belt Canyon. There are plenty of remnants of the railroad and the bridges it would cross. This is a beautiful park with easy to moderate hiking and ample opportunity to either cross the creek or go swimming! Located only about 40 minutes outside of Great Falls, this area is great for a day hike or an overnight camping excursion. You definitely don't want to forget your camera as just about every bend of the creek offers another beautiful view. If you start at the Upper Sluice Boxes Trailhead (there are no fee boxes at the upper trailhead parking) and head down into the park, just follow the trail just shy of a mile and a half in and you will look down on a peninsula full of river rock and right across from it are multi levels of cliffs that are great for jumping into the water from. You have to cross the creek to climb the cliffs, there are two paths up, one right at the front on the rock and another a little back further through the brush. The lowest cliff is probably 6 feet from the water and the highest maybe 15 feet. Of course, please be responsible and jump at your own risk. There are numerous spots along the creek to stop for a cool dip, this was one of our favorites! Such great fun on a hot summer day!