Sluice Boxes State Park — Attraction in Neihart

I've been hiking here for years. I really like the river canyons of the Smith and Dearborn but I absolutely love this canyon with Belt Creek winding its way through. Though I like every section, I prefer starting on top and hiking south. Once you get past the swimming hole/cliff diving area, you are usually on your own. The Cliffside trail has some exposure but only for a couple hundred feet. If you choose to go to Albright (which is approx 5.5 miles from Overlook trailhead), there will be 7 creek crossings. The trip is worth it with several old buildings, mining rail cars, smelters, etc... Please respect what has been left there. Went 10/5 and did encounter a decent sized black bear about about a mile north of Albright. We figured we might see one as there was lots of sign in the area. Love the Sluice Boxes! Great...

I hesitate to review this state park because it's a some-what hidden gem near Great Falls and I like it that way. That being said, this is an awesome place to go almost anytime of year, but especially in early to mid summer. The trout fishing is good, the water is clean and clear for swimming, and the hiking trail is fun with multiple creek crossings. In the fall, it's beautiful with the changing colors, and winter has its own pretty take on the area being at the base of the Little Belts. If you do go, please pack out what you pack in. Lately the amount of trash being left behind is aggravating, and I don't enjoy picking up after others. Thanks, and enjoy our parks...

I am from Idaho visiting my grandchildren from Great Falls. I rely heavily on the reviews of hikes before I go. I wanted a hike that would be mild for them. According to the reviews on this site, this hike was regarded as great to bring children on. Wrong! We had to forge the river 3 times each way and looking to having to forge it a 4th time, I decided it too dangerous due to how swift and deep it was to get across. You don’t get a just a little wet like a small stream event. Beautiful hike from what we saw but leave the littles (0- 9) at home. They were so scared and wet holding on to dear life to their grandma...