W W W. D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA NA . C O M
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NORTHCENTRAL MONTANA
ARNICA FALLS
DESCRIPTION When you come across this golden-
yellow falls, you will be surprised at how quickly
it appears. This waterfall has several levels — the
top is the largest and most dramatic plunge, while
the lower part is reckless cascades. Take note of the
stunning amount of greenery around the area. This
is typical of the Swan Valley — lush forests, huckle-
berries, bears, hidden waterfalls and roadless areas.
ACCESS From Big Fork, head east on Montana Highway 209
(State Highway 209) 5.3 miles to MT-83. Turn right at MT-83 and
continue south for about 13 miles. Turn left at Lost Creek Road
(National Forest Development Road 680) and follow this road for
about 2.5 miles. A quarter mile after the road crosses the creek,
stay left as the road forks and follow National Forest Road 5206
for 4 miles. When you come to a sharp switchback in the road,
park and walk or bike along an old logging road heading east for a
quarter mile until the path crosses a side stream. The falls can be
viewed by looking up to the north.
HISTORY Just west of Arnica Falls is Swan Lake and the Swan
River Valley. The lake is beautiful and clean. It stretches length-
wise for quite some distance while averaging only a mile in width.
At the south end of the lake, you will find a little paradise at the
Swan River National Wildlife Refuge. Boardwalks give you a wide
view of thriving marshlands and a healthy variety of native birds
and other critters.
ARNICA FALLS
"A
store
as
unique
as
Missoula."
301 N. Higgins
Missoula, MT
Mon - Fri:
10am - 6pm
Sunday:
12pm - 4pm
406-541-0080
greenlightmt.com
CONTINUED
