Day Trip From Great Falls: Waterfalls & History
One of the many things I love about Great Falls is how close it is to a variety of adventures. My husband and I love to take last minute day trips to hike and find hidden gems. With the Little Belt Mountains around an hour from Great Falls, a full day of waterfalls, local history, and unexpected wildlife can all be part of a spontaneous escape. We hopped in the vehicle with our two dogs for a day trip from Great Falls that reminded us how much there is to experience just outside city limits.
Start with a Waterfall: Memorial Falls Trail
Our adventure began with a stop at one of our favorite places, Memorial Falls. The turnoff is just past the small historic town of Neihart along Highway 89. This scenic trail is roughly a quarter of a mile to the lower waterfall (pictured above). It’s accessible for all ages and fun for four-legged friends too, just note it is a bit rocky so hiking shoes are best.
While admiring the falls, we heard and spotted an American Dipper, an aquatic songbird, diving into the water below the falls. Then we noticed her nest tucked beside the waterfall—tiny fuzzy heads of her chicks peeking out. It was a beautiful and unexpected moment that made the hike extra special.
We continued past the lower falls along the trail that leads higher into the forest and to an upper falls. It’s not overly difficult but does require some careful footing—and the payoff is well worth it. If you follow the path less traveled, it’ll lead to open, expansive views of the Little Belts.
A Quick Detour: Neihart Bell Tower
On the way back to Great Falls we noticed an “Historic Point” sign as we were entering Neihart and decided to follow it. It led us just off of the highway to the Neihart Bell Tower, a town landmark. The bell was originally used to alert Neihart residents of disasters such as fire, mine or train accidents. A replica of the original tower was completed and installed in November of 2022. Next to the tower is an interpretive shelter with signage explaining the area’s mining history.
Step into Railroad History: Monarch Depot
Around 12 miles down the road, we stopped in Monarch, where we stopped at the beautiful and historic Monarch Depot. This 1902 railroad station is the last of its kind between Great Falls and Neihart, saved and restored by the Monarch-Neihart Historical Group.
There, we had the pleasure of meeting Bob Majerus, one of the volunteers behind the restoration efforts. Bob gave us a personal tour, sharing stories about the depot’s heyday and its meticulous renovation—from the restored ticket desk and freight room to vintage tools, railroad signage, and a replica track outside.
This free museum is must-see for a day trip from Great Falls or drive along the scenic highway.
Wrap It Up with Big Views: Sluice Boxes State Park
To finish the day, we took a short walk into Sluice Boxes State Park. We hiked to the first water crossing and back (if you keep going on the trail, expect multiple river and water crossings. The first section of trail still offered dramatic views of the limestone canyon. We also spotted remnants of the mining and railroad days with metal structures and hold cabins.
Our dogs loved exploring the trail and playing in the water, and we loved the change of pace and scenery.
One Day, Four Stops
Memorial Falls ➝ Neihart Bell Tower ➝ Monarch Depot ➝ Sluice Boxes State Park.
No reservations, no crowds—just fresh air, Montana stories, and miles of beauty in every direction on a day trip from Great Falls.
Shannon Newth is the Content Director and Film Liaison for Great Falls Montana Tourism. She loves to discover hidden gems and enjoys taking in all the adventure and history the Great Falls area has to offer, especially with her husband and two pups in tow. Shannon would love to see your adventures – send her your stories and photos!
