Trail Review: Ousel Falls (Big Sky, Montana)
Welcome to Ousel Falls. This trail holds a special place for me. This was my first solo winter hike when I started my year-long adventures. Now it’s a regular “must-do” hike when I’m in the area.
Ousel Falls is a nearly 2 mile out-and-back hike. While an “easy” hike, it does have steep hills. You’ll start walking down to the river. The trail has lots of benches and picnic tables if you want to take a break, eat lunch, sit and enjoy the sights and sounds along the trail.
The trail changes with every visit. This is because the river flow is dependent on snow melt and recent rains. I’ve been here in late summer where it is a babble, and then times when it’s raging and so loud that it’s hard to hear your hiking partners.
Be prepared to meet lots of new friends on this trail. It’s a popular trail in the area. If I want more peace, I go early in the morning.
How to prepare: I’ve been on this hike in all seasons. My advice is probably the same for all of them.
- Wear layers – You are going to warm up as you go.
- Bring water – It’s dry in Big Sky. It’s important to stay hydrated.
- Bring a snack – This is a quick hike. You won’t necessarily need it, but you may want to sit and enjoy the view at one of the many picnic tables and benches
- Bear Spray – When you are hiking in this part of the country you always want to carry bear spray. Be Bear Aware and check out the US Forest tips.
If you need to pick up anything for this hike, you’ll drive through Big Sky’s main shopping area and can pick up anything you need.
Basics
Location: Big Sky, Montana
Level: Easy
Distance: 1.7 miles
Parking: This trail has 2 parking lots. Most of the time the main lot has plenty of spots, but if you drive into the lot and turn right, they have a extension to the lot.
Bathrooms: Toilets are available in the parking lot just before heading out on the trail
What to wear: Go for layers. You are going to warm up as you hike, so you may want to take a top layer off. But you are also spending time in shade and by water, which may mean you want to put the layer back on at times. I was recently on the trail when the river was raging. I did get wet when looking at the falls, but the mist was refreshing. I didn’t feel the need for a raincoat.
What to pack: Water, bear spray, trekking poles (it’s has steep hills), snack.
Dog Friendly: YES! They require leashes. We ran into a lot of very friendly dogs on the trail.