Elizabeth Falls is one of those less-known falls that could secretly be the most magnificent experience of your life!
But little is known about the falls that are hidden behind miles of strenuous hiking and off-the-beaten-path location. Be sure to read thoroughly before taking the adventure in hand, as it’s quite the trek.
Details About Elizabeth Falls
Elizabeth Falls is a rather impressive falls at an elevation of 5919 feet, but little is known about the falls. To visit the falls, you can locate it via GPS using the coordinates.
- Location: Lake County, Montana, near St. Ignatius and Ravalli, Montana
- Latitude: 47.3390989°
- Longitude: -113.9287119°
- Height: Reported at 650 feet
- Nearby Features: Lucifer Lake
Interesting Fact: The falls aren’t particularly well-known, despite being tall. This means that there won’t be large crowds, most likely, when you make your way there.
Can I Drive to Elizabeth Falls?
The only way to get to the falls is by hiking.
Are There Trails to Elizabeth Falls?
The closest feature known to most potential hikers around Elizabeth Falls is Lucifer Lake. The lake is accessed by the Lucifer Lake Trail, with a trailhead at Mission Dam Road. There are, however, no known set trails that lead to the falls. Instead, the falls appear to be a little south of the trail. There may be a small walking path worn by visitors heading to the falls.
The Lucifer Lake Trail is 7.0 miles of out-and-back hiking and is considered to be a challenging hike. According to many hikers reporting via All Trails, the hike is “brutal” with extremely steep terrain, rock climbing, and several stream crossings.
The hike along the way, however, is rewarding enough for most, with stunning views of the falls along the way (Elizabeth is not the only falls on the way!) and the lake at the end of the trail.
Most folks take a little over 5 hours to complete the hike. The trail is popular among backpackers, birders, and campers, but for much of the day, the trail is quiet. Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be leashed.
Is There Anything Else I Should Know Before Hiking Out to Elizabeth Falls?
Elizabeth Falls is located within the Flathead Reservation. Because of this, you will need a conservation license to hike on this tribal land.
Are There Lakes Near Elizabeth Falls?
The nearest lake to Elizabeth Falls is Lucifer Lake, which is fed by Mission Creek. The lake is just over 45 acres and filled with many fish.
Visiting Elizabeth Falls in Lake County, Montana
Elizabeth Falls is a tall waterfall off the beaten path in Lake County, Montana. The falls are accessed via an indirect trail from the Lucifer Lake Trail. The falls are lesser known than the nearby Mission Falls, both feeding from Mission Creek, but the falls are quite lovely and worth the side journey.
If you decide to hike in and see Elizabeth Falls, be sure to:
- Pack snacks and plenty of water
- Bring gloves for rock climbing on your hike
- Wear durable hiking boots
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing
- Bring a sweater or sweatshirt
- Wear sunscreen and sunglasses, along with other sun protection
- Be prepared for a strenuous hike
The falls are well worth the journey, according to visitors, but it’s quite the hike getting there!
If you know more about Elizabeth Falls or have photos to share, let us know in the comments below.