About Barrier Falls
Barrier Falls is a named waterfall in Missoula County, Montana, located about 27 miles north of Seeley Lake. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Big Salmon Lake West 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 47°34′00″ N, 113°29′43″ W (47.56661, -113.49536). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Spud Creek (stream, 0.3 mi), Sappho Creek (stream, 0.3 mi), and Gyp Creek (stream, 0.9 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Big Salmon Falls, 3.8 miles to the south.
Weather at Barrier Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Barrier Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Denver time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Barrier Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Barrier Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Spud Creek — stream, 0.3 mi
- Sappho Creek — stream, 0.3 mi
- Gyp Creek — stream, 0.9 mi
- Tango Creek — stream, 1.1 mi
- Spud Point — summit, 1.7 mi
- Brownie Creek — stream, 1.8 mi
- Albino Creek — stream, 1.8 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 47.56661, -113.49536. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Barrier Falls
- Elizabeth Falls, MT26 mi southwest
- Monture Falls, MT26 mi southeast
- Mission Falls, MT26 mi southwest
- Lange Falls, MT31 mi east
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Barrier Falls located?
Barrier Falls is in Missoula County, Montana, about 27 miles north of Seeley Lake. Its coordinates are 47.56661, -113.49536 (47°34′00″ N, 113°29′43″ W).
What town is closest to Barrier Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Seeley Lake, MT, about 27 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Barrier Falls?
The closest is Big Salmon Falls (3.8 mi south). Others within reach include Needle Falls (14 mi), Morrell Falls (18 mi), and Terrace Falls (21 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Barrier Falls?
Barrier Falls appears on the USGS Big Salmon Lake West 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.