Located about 30 miles from Wise River, Montana, tucked away into the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness, the 20-foot Pintler Falls is a welcome, backcountry sight for folks looking for a comfortable, short hike and exciting natural views.
The short trail is located off the Pintler Creek Road, deep within the “jewel of the Northern Rockies” as the Wilderness Area is called, in the Bitterroot national forests in Beaverhead County.
The falls are nearest Fishtrap, Montana, and may also be found under the name of Pintlar (a instead of e) Falls.
A Guide to the Pintler Falls, Beaverhead County
It appears that Pintler Falls is located along an unnamed double-track trail through the forest in the Anaconda Pintler Wildnerness in Montana. The trail is shorter than a half mile and may be found somewhere near the end of Pintler Creek Road.
Pintler Falls Stats
- Location: Off-Road, Anaconda Pintler Wilderness, Beaverhead County, Montana
- Latitude: 45.85978
- Longitude: -113.44509
- Stream: Pintler Creek
- Height: 20 feet
- Elevation: 6402 feet
- Season: Spring to autumn
- Campgrounds and RV parks nearby: 20+ campgrounds located near Pintler Creek within the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness and surrounding areas
Recreational Activities Near Pintler Falls
The Anaconda Pintler Wilderness is an incredibly beautiful, untamed portion of the Montana wilderness. Within the area, many wild animals such as puma and wolverines roam, while we humans enter with tents and backpacks, fishing rods, and campfires.
The wilderness area straddles the Continental Divide, between the Bitterroot Valley and Big Hole Valley, along the Anaconda Mountain Range. Because of the incredible peaks, the permanent snowfields, the glacially carved landforms, valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and more, the area is one of the most incredible portions of the United States.
Yet, it is lesser known than other regions, such as Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park. Because of this lack of familiarity, you’ll find fewer crowds along trails and plenty to enjoy and take in on your visit.
Swimming
You might want to know, can you swim in Pintler Falls? Some hikers have reported doing so, but it’s never a good idea to swim in naturally formed waterfalls. They can be extremely dangerous, thanks to the undercurrent that can pull you under and drag you away.
There are many bodies of water in the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness where swimming is safer. Many of the lakes and rivers will have extremely chilly waters year-round, thanks to forming from glacial melt and mountain run-offs. So, bring a warm blanket to wrap up in afterward!
Boating
Boating in the Anaconda Pintler Wildnerness is another popular choice for recreational activities. You may bring your own boats and put them out into streams, rivers, and lakes, or rent them from local outfitters that offer boats of many varieties, including pontoons, kayaks, canoes, rafts, motorboats, and more.
Some of the most popular vendors in the area include
- Rentals and Tours and rentals from Many Glacier
- Rentals from Glacier Outfitters
- Rentals and Tours with Sea Me Paddle
White Water Rafting
Along the many rushing rivers in the region, white water rafting is also an extremely popular sport. Many outfitters and companies offer a variety of trip options, including short rides, partial days, full days, and multi-day trips.
Check out the many different options and locations that the companies service before making your final plans – not all trips are equal.
Some great places to find rafting trips include