Woodbine Falls Trail #93, Woodbine Campground, and the Stillwater River Trail # 24 are all closed for 2023 until further notice. Historic flooding in mid-June 2022 washed out the road and it may not be repaired until 2024. For the current status call the US Forest Service at 406-446-2103
The Woodbine Falls trail is only about 3/4 mile long and features mild climbing on a well-designed and maintained trail. The trail ends at an overlook that provides excellent views of Woodbine Falls as it plunges down a vertical cliff wall. It’s easy to understand why this is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness.
Directions to the Woodbine Falls trailhead
The trailhead for Woodbine Falls is right in the Woodbine Campground and is very easy to find. The approach is via MT 78 which runs from Red Lodge, MT to Columbus, MT. About 2 miles south of Absarokee on MT 78 there is a well-signed intersection with county road 419 (the Nye Road) which heads west from the highway. Take this road for 28 miles, past the tiny towns of Nye and Roy, to the campground.
Nye Road (CR 419) is very well maintained all the way to the end. About 2 miles before reaching the campground the road passes the Stillwater Mine which is a major enterprise. The mine traffic ensures that the road is well maintained.
Just before the road ends the campground entrance turns to the left and crosses the Stillwater River into the campground while the main road continues for a short distance to the Stillwater River Trail trailhead.
Woodbine Falls Trail
As you enter the campground follow the signs leading to the left to find the parking area for the trail. The hike begins by following Woodbine Creek for a short distance along the northern edge of the campground. The creek you are following here has only recently plunged down the falls.
After a short hike, the trail crosses a bridge and leaves Woodbine Creek behind as it slowly climbs the hillside. This section of the trail has been carefully planned to avoid any steep climbs. In places, it’s easy to see the old trail which climbed a much steeper path. As you hike the trail you soon cross into the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness.
The trail ends at just over 3/4 mile after gaining about 280ft of elevation. The trail ends at a developed observation area where you can see the falls on the opposite cliffside. After enjoying the spectacular view of the falls, return by following the trail back to the campground. Be sure to take time to enjoy the views as you descend.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s about 3/4 mile with an elevation gain of 280 ft. Most hikers can make the hike to the falls and back in less than 1 1/2 hours.
There is no fee of any sort to make the hike to Woodbine Falls. However, if you camp in the Woodbine Campground there is a nightly camping fee.
The Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness and the surrounding forests are special places that need our support. You can help advocate for these lands by supporting the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness Association. They are a positive force in support of the wilderness and we all need to give them our support!