About Big Salmon Falls
Big Salmon Falls is a named waterfall in Missoula County, Montana, located about 23 miles north of Seeley Lake. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Holland Peak 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 47°30′47″ N, 113°30′44″ W (47.51306, -113.51211). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Smoky Creek (stream, 0.1 mi), Cataract Creek (stream, 0.2 mi), and Pendant Creek (stream, 0.8 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Barrier Falls, 3.8 miles to the north.
USGS gazetteer description: Located on Big Salmon Creek, 2.3 miles northeast of Woodward Lake, and 7 miles southwest of Big Salmon Lake.
Weather at Big Salmon 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 Big Salmon 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 Big Salmon Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Big Salmon Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Smoky Creek — stream, 0.1 mi
- Cataract Creek — stream, 0.2 mi
- Pendant Creek — stream, 0.8 mi
- Gyp Mountain — summit, 1.5 mi
- Necklace Lakes — lake, 1.6 mi
- Dart Creek — stream, 1.8 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 47.51306, -113.51211. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Big Salmon Falls
- Mission Falls, MT23 mi southwest
- Mud Creek Falls, MT24 mi west
- Dean Falls, MT29 mi northeast
- Lange Falls, MT32 mi east
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Big Salmon Falls located?
Big Salmon Falls is in Missoula County, Montana, about 23 miles north of Seeley Lake. Its coordinates are 47.51306, -113.51211 (47°30′47″ N, 113°30′44″ W).
What town is closest to Big Salmon Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Seeley Lake, MT, about 23 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Big Salmon Falls?
The closest is Barrier Falls (3.8 mi north). Others within reach include Morrell Falls (15 mi), Needle Falls (16 mi), and Terrace Falls (20 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Big Salmon Falls?
Big Salmon Falls appears on the USGS Holland Peak 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.