About Pioneer Falls
Pioneer Falls is a named waterfall in Madison County, Montana, located about 9.2 miles north of Big Sky. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Willow Swamp 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 45°24′54″ N, 111°24′19″ W (45.41493, -111.40524). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Falls Creek (stream, 0.3 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Hoodoo Cascade, 8.1 miles to the east.
What Visitors Mention
Topics that come up most often in Google reviews of Pioneer Falls:
viewhikewaterfall
More Photos
24 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Pioneer Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Pioneer Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Denver time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Pioneer Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Pioneer Falls holds a 4.9 average from 7 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Pioneer Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Falls Creek — stream, 0.3 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 45.41493, -111.40524. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Pioneer Falls
- Champagne Falls, MT22 mi east
- Shower Falls, MT22 mi east
- Apex Falls, MT22 mi east
- Silken Skein Falls, MT22 mi east
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pioneer Falls located?
Pioneer Falls is in Madison County, Montana, about 9.2 miles north of Big Sky. Its coordinates are 45.41493, -111.40524 (45°24′54″ N, 111°24′19″ W).
What town is closest to Pioneer Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Big Sky, MT, about 9.2 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Pioneer Falls?
The closest is Hoodoo Cascade (8.1 mi east). Others within reach include Ousel Falls (13 mi), Cedar Falls (13 mi), and Twin Falls (21 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Pioneer Falls?
Pioneer Falls appears on the USGS Willow Swamp 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.