Goose Creek Falls
A moderate hike to a beautiful 50-60ft waterfall, featuring smaller cascades and scenic mountain views. Be prepared for steep, rocky terrain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Goose Creek Falls
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A moderate hike to a beautiful 50-60ft waterfall, featuring smaller cascades and scenic mountain views. Be prepared for steep, rocky terrain.
"It is really steep and rocky at Goose Creek Falls. It is a scramble to get down to see the falls more clearly."
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and rocky. Wear good hiking shoes for grip and ankle support.
⚠️ Watch for Trail Forks
There's an unmarked fork; the left path is steeper but leads to the top of the falls.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Goose Creek Falls
Main waterfall
A stunning 50-60 foot cascade, best viewed from a rocky ledge. Requires careful descent.
Smaller Cascades
Before the main falls
Easily accessible smaller falls and creek access points along the trail. Great for wading in warmer weather.
Scenic Mountain Views
Along the trail
Enjoy decent lookout views over the surrounding mountains during your hike.
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Planning Your Visit
Trail Difficulty & Terrain
Best Viewing & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Help planning a McCall trip?
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and rocky. Wear good hiking shoes for grip and ankle support. +1
⚠️ Watch for Trail Forks
There's an unmarked fork; the left path is steeper but leads to the top of the falls.
I'm dispersed camping with my dog through Montana and Idaho in a week, this is my route so far. Any breathtaking hikes or campsites I need to check out?
I don't know where to look for huckleberries
💧 Water Levels Vary
Water flow can be low in October. Check conditions if you're seeking a powerful waterfall experience.
⬆️ Prepare for the Climb Back
The hike back up is all uphill and can be tiring. Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The trail is steep and rocky. Wear good hiking shoes for grip and ankle support. +1
⚠️ Watch for Trail Forks
There's an unmarked fork; the left path is steeper but leads to the top of the falls.
💧 Water Levels Vary
Water flow can be low in October. Check conditions if you're seeking a powerful waterfall experience.
⬆️ Prepare for the Climb Back
The hike back up is all uphill and can be tiring. Pace yourself and stay hydrated.
♨️ Nearby Hot Springs
Consider visiting Last Chance Hot Springs nearby for a relaxing soak after your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Goose Creek Falls is a beautiful natural attraction with a rewarding waterfall, though the trail is steeper and more challenging than some expect, especially the uphill return. Visitors appreciate the scenic views and the opportunity for a bit of adventure, but caution is advised on the rocky paths. +1
"I went to Goose Credk Falls the other day. It is a 1.2 mile hike downhill to the falls. The trail is dirt and steep in places. After crossing the bridge there are a couple smaller falls that can be accessed easily. The larger falls is past the smaller ones by about a quarter mile. It is really steep and rocky at Goose Creek Falls. It is a scramble to get down to see the falls more clearly. Be very careful when going down the rocks. The falls drop about 50 or 60 feet. It is hard to see all of the falls because the trail runs parallel to the direction of the water."
D Dias
"Great waterfall hike with some decent lookout views over the mountain. The waterfalls is around 1.5 miles from the parking lot and is up or down hill most of the time. As you go down the trail you keep thinking you are seeing the beautiful falls and it keeps getting better further you go. To get the best views or pictures of the falls you may need to do a little climbing down rocks...but nothing crazy.
Pro tip: There is a natural hot spring very close, go visit that and relax after the hike. You can make reservations online. Last chance hot springs."
Kevin M
"Hiked the shorter trail (2.8mi) with a 9 year old, 5 year old and little dog. It was great! Loved the little bridges and creek access points along the way. If it were warmer, we would've enjoyed wading and dipping our toes in but it was too chilly when we went.
Toward the end of the trail to Goose Creek Falls, there's a fork in the trail with no signs. We started heading right as it was toward the water, but thankfully another hiker told us to try the other fork, which felt really counter-intuitive, as it looped around a bend and headed uphill, away from the sound of the water. But evidently, the other way was much steeper and more dangerous.
We went back and veered left, which is the steepest part of the trail, but not so very bad because my 5 year old talked nonstop the whole way up, despite my huffing and puffing behind him.
The trail leads around the hill and to the top of the falls, where we hiked down a steep, rocky path to a little ledge above the falls. Definitely want to keep an eye on your kids or pets at this portion, as it's a steep cliff and somewhat narrow ledge.
The falls from this shorter hike weren't very impressive but figured the water level was pretty low since it was October when we were there.
Overall, great trail! Would go again if I could convince the kids to go on such a long walk again.."
elissa jae
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goose Creek Falls is accessible via a trail from a parking lot. The trail is approximately 1.2 miles downhill to the main falls.
While the trail is generally well-defined, there's an unmarked fork towards the end. The left path leads to the top of the falls.
Information on specific parking availability is limited, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
Using GPS for the general area is recommended, but be aware of the unmarked trail fork towards the end of the hike.
Public transport options to Goose Creek Falls are not readily available, making a personal vehicle the most practical way to access the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of admission fees or tickets required for Goose Creek Falls. It appears to be a natural attraction accessible via a public trail.
As a natural outdoor attraction, Goose Creek Falls is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's best to visit during safe daylight for hiking.
Information regarding parking fees is not explicitly stated. It's advisable to check local regulations or be prepared for potential parking charges.
Organized tours for Goose Creek Falls are not commonly advertised. Most visitors explore independently.
No specific permits are mentioned for general visitation to Goose Creek Falls. However, always check for any local advisories or regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the main Goose Creek Falls is approximately 1.2 miles downhill, making the round trip about 2.4 miles.
The trail is considered moderate, with steep and rocky sections, especially on the descent to the main falls. The return hike is entirely uphill. +1
While some families hike with children, the steep and rocky terrain, especially near the falls, requires close supervision.
Swimming is not recommended at the main falls due to the steep drop and rocky conditions. However, there are creek access points for wading.
The best views and photo opportunities are often from a rocky ledge above the main falls, which requires careful scrambling. +1
🎫 🍂 Seasonal Considerations
Autumn offers crisp air and beautiful scenery, with potential for cold weather. Water levels might be lower in October.
While the cold doesn't bother some, winter conditions could make the steep and rocky trails more hazardous. Check conditions before visiting.
Spring and early summer typically offer the highest water levels for the most impressive waterfall flow.
Yes, autumn brings cold autumn leaves and vibrant fall colors to the surrounding area, making it a beautiful time for a goose creek autumn walk.
Water levels are generally highest in spring and early summer and can be lower in late fall, particularly in October.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Hikers & Adventurers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Goose Creek Falls Trail
A key point of navigation is an unmarked fork in the trail towards the end. While it might seem counter-intuitive, the path that loops around and heads uphill (away from the immediate sound of water) is generally considered the safer route to the top of the falls. The other fork is described as much steeper and more dangerous.
For those seeking the most dramatic views, reaching the main falls involves a scramble down steep, rocky paths. This section requires extra caution, especially for children or pets, as the ledge above the falls can be narrow.
Photography and Viewing Tips
Many visitors find that the beauty of the falls intensifies the further you go along the trail. Don't be discouraged if the initial views seem modest; keep pushing towards the main cascade for the most impressive sights.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
A significant pro tip from visitors is the proximity of Last Chance Hot Springs. This natural hot spring offers a perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after your hike. It's recommended to make reservations online in advance to secure your spot.
For those interested in longer excursions, the area around McCall, where Goose Creek Falls is located, is known for its outdoor activities. Hikers can explore various trails, and the region is popular for fishing and camping, especially if you don't mind cooler weather.
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