Ousel Falls — Local services in Big Sky

We went during spring break, mid March. The hike was beautiful and scenic. The descriptions we had seen and locals we talked to said the hike was very easy. We would probably rate it on the moderate side of easy. Granted, that was likely influenced by trail conditions. The trail was small gravel and dirt where not covered by snow. However, it was VERY icy and VERY slippery in places. It was moderately busy, and we saw probably 10 other groups during our hike. So I can tell you our sneakers were not working well, and even hiking boots had trouble. The only person we saw who has no trouble had crampons or ice cleats or something. (Pardon my Floridian lack of knowledge). One person slid sideways off the trail and then 10 or 15 feet down a moderate slope. Another section was so slippery we almost couldn't get back up. It was a section of short switchbacks where I took a step, ended up on my butt and slid down the steep way. I was fine and my kids thought it was hilarious. Another fellow who came by later ended up going head first which was a little scary to watch. We did find a spot there where my kids could climb up and slide down repeatedly and safely. They thought it was the best thing ever (remember, Florida) so that made up for the icy trail. Otherwise the falls were completely frozen but beautiful. The area along the river was shaded and dotted with picnic tables. It would be an amazing place for a meal in the summer. Overall it was a fun hike and our kids and no trouble (aside from the ice) and I would highly recommend the hike if you are in the area. Just make sure you...

Ousel Falls is a short but stunning hike in the heart of Big Sky. Along the trail, which meanders alongside the South and West Forks of the Gallatin River, hikers cross three bridges before reaching the waterfall. The trailhead starts at a fork; head right to take the densely-forested Yellow Mules Trail. Approximately 1 mile into the hike, progress right again at a Y to continue along Yellow Mules. When hikers reach a trail split near the falls, take one of four routes to the falls: the far-right fork leads the towering South Fork Overlook; the inner-right fork leads to the top of the Falls via a natural footpath; the straight path leads to the base of the waterfall, with a picnic area and pool; and the left path leads to the rocky Ousel Falls Overlook. Great waterfall with a short hike. Jeff Mullins Photography Adventures. ...

Beautiful Hike that was on the easy scale of hiking. We were there in August and the water was still very chilly but we got in it. I enjoyed going up above the falls first and then coming down to the big falls. There is a nice table rest area by the falls. There is beautiful views the entire way. The water is very healing and everything felt so peaceful. The areas were clean and well kept and I hope everyone continues to play their role in that. The parking was easy but no RV, trailers or vans, so if you have those then plan accordingly. There is bathroom at the trailhead. The temperature does drop by the falls so if you get cold easily take a rain jacket. There is a lot of water to see all along the hike and it is...