I combined the hike of Grotto Falls Trail with Palisade Falls Trail. About an hour drive south of Bozeman, it made for an excellent 3.5-mile afternoon hike. The Grotto Falls Trail is a heavily trafficked 2.4-mile, out and back trail that features wild flowers and a waterfall.
Grotto Falls is an easy hike that is good for all skill levels, especially families. The trail is a natural gravel surface that is typically 5-feet wide. It has a gradual, but moderately steep, 8% grade for a total gain of 278-feet. Dogs are definitely welcome, but they must be on a leash at all times.
Palisade Falls Trail, is a heavily trafficked 1.1-mile, paved, out and back trail that leads visitors to a stunning waterfall. The trail is excellent for all skill levels and is accessible to almost everyone. The trail gains a total of 239 feet, while following a steeper 8-10% grade.
The paved path ends at a viewpoint of the Palisade Falls. There’s a bridge that leads across the stream and is about 300 feet from the waterfall. On the other side of the bridge is a path that leads to the base of the falls, providing a fantastic place to get some pictures.
The Palisade Falls are around 45-feet high and in the middle of a rock garden. There’s a little bit of greenery close to the base with some trees at the top.
I passed two or three groups in both directions on my way up.When I arrived, there was a family taking some pictures and getting ready to head out. I was able to get around 10 minutes, by myself, before another group showed up.
The combination of these two trails made for a fantastic day trip from Bozeman. Both trails are about a five-minute drive from each other. If visitors, of the Bozeman area, are looking for a quick escape into nature, then this is the place to go! I would absolutely return here when I move back.
