Morrell Falls National Recreation Trail #30

The average hiking time for the Morrell Falls National Recreation Trail #30 is around 2 hours and 20 minutes. This is for the full 8.7 km (5.4 miles) out-and-back route, but your pace may vary.

This trail is generally considered easy to intermediate for hiking. While it's well-used and has an overall easy physical rating, be aware that some sections have significant tree roots. It's a great option for beginners looking for a slightly longer hike, but might be challenging for very young children on bikes due to the roots and some steeper sections.

The trailhead for the Morrell Falls National Recreation Trail #30 is located near Seeley Lake, Montana. You'll find ample parking available directly at the trailhead. There are also dispersed campsites and an outdoor toilet facility at the trailhead for convenience.

The main attraction is the impressive Morrell Falls, a nearly 90 to 100-foot tall double waterfall. You'll also pass by Morrell Lake, which offers stunning views of the Swan Mountains and is a great spot for fishing or swimming. The trail itself winds through a beautiful forest of mixed conifers, providing plenty of shade.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome, but please ensure they are kept on a leash to protect wildlife and for the safety of other trail users. Remember to pack out any waste.

No, you do not need a permit to hike the Morrell Falls National Recreation Trail #30, and there is no entrance fee. It is located within the Lolo National Forest, which generally does not require permits for day-use hiking.

The trail is accessible from late spring through fall. These seasons offer pleasant hiking conditions and the chance to see wildflowers. Early season wildflowers like fairy slipper orchids and glacier lilies are particularly beautiful. While winter hiking is possible with snowshoes or skis, the trail is closed to motorized vehicles except for snowmobiles after December 1st.

The area is rich in wildlife. You might spot beaver, bobcat, deer, elk, and moose. It's important to remember that this is grizzly bear country, so always carry bear spray, make noise on the trail, and know how to react to an encounter. Mountain lions are also present.

The Morrell Falls National Recreation Trail #30 is primarily an out-and-back trail. You'll follow the same path to the falls and back. There are no significant loop options directly on this trail.

The trail follows a rolling climb along the base of the Swan Mountain Range. It's a standard 'terra' trail, meaning the surface is predominantly natural ground. You'll walk through a healthy forest of lodgepole pine, fir, larch, and spruce. While mostly timbered, there are open views, especially from Morrell Lake.

Given that the trail is in grizzly bear country, it's crucial to be bear aware. Carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and store food properly. Also, be mindful of tree roots on the trail, which can be a tripping hazard. Always let someone know your hiking plans.