Holland Lake Falls Trail: Complete Hiking Guide

Why This Is Swan Valley’s Most Popular Hike

Holland Lake Falls is the most popular hike in Swan Valley for good reason. You get lake views, mountain scenery, and a beautiful waterfall all in a moderate 3-mile hike. The trail is well maintained and suitable for families with older kids who are comfortable with some uphill hiking.

The payoff is worth it. When you reach the base of the falls, you’ll see multiple cascades with the tallest dropping about 50 feet. In spring and early summer, the falls are especially dramatic with snowmelt creating a powerful spray.

Getting to the Trailhead

Finding Holland Lake Falls is easy. Directionally its north of Seeley Lake and south if you’re coming from Bigfork. Take Highway 83 to mile marker 35. You’ll see signs for Holland Lake Road pointing east toward the mountains.

Turn onto Holland Lake Road. It’s a dirt and gravel road but typically well maintained. You might hit some potholes depending on the season, but regular vehicles handle it fine. Drive about 4 miles total.

You’ll pass the Holland Lake Campground entrance on your right. Keep going. Next you’ll pass the road to Holland Lake Lodge on your right. Continue to the end where the road dead ends at a large parking area. That’s your trailhead.

The parking lot has vault toilets (and hikers consistently say they’re well maintained with toilet paper). There’s plenty of parking, but this is a popular trail so arrive early on summer weekends to guarantee a spot.

The Hike: What to Expect

Starting Out (First 0.5 Miles)

From the parking area, head right on the trail. Walk about 500 feet to a trail junction. You’ll see signs for Trail 416. Stay straight on this trail. It’s marked for hikers only, so you won’t have to share with horses past this point.

The trail begins in forest cover with quick glimpses of Holland Lake through the trees. The path is wide and relatively flat at the start. The views of the lake on the bottom part of the hike are stunning, so you’ll want to take your time and enjoy it.

Following the Shoreline (Miles 0.5 to 1.0)

The first two-thirds of the hike follows the north shore of Holland Lake. This section stays relatively level with only minor elevation gain. You’ll walk through ponderosa pine and Douglas fir forest.

Watch for openings in the trees where you can see Holland Lake below and the Mission Mountains across the valley. These views are worth stopping for, especially on clear days. You might spot kayakers or paddleboarders on the water below.

The trail stays well above the shoreline, so you’re not walking right next to the water. You’re up on a ridge looking down at the lake.

The Climb (Final 0.6 Miles)

Once you leave the northeast corner of the lake, the trail starts climbing. This is where you gain most of the 495 feet of elevation. The grade is steady but manageable if you take your time.

The trail gets rockier as you gain elevation. Watch your footing, especially if conditions are wet. Rocks can be slippery. Good hiking boots with solid tread help here.

You’ll cross a small bridge over Holland Creek. After the bridge, you’ll start hearing the waterfall before you see it. The sound gets louder as you approach.

At the Falls

The trail ends at the base of Holland Falls. The falls are impressive with multiple cascades. Water drops over rocky ledges creating several tiers. The main drop is about 50 feet tall.

In spring when snowmelt is heavy, expect to get wet from the spray. Bring rain gear if you want to get close. By late summer, the volume drops significantly but the falls are still scenic.

There are rocks at the base where people sit and take photos. Forest Service signs ask hikers not to climb on the wet rocks around the falls themselves. It’s slippery and dangerous.

Take time to enjoy the falls and catch your breath before heading back down the same trail.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (May to early June): Falls are most powerful with snowmelt. Trail can be muddy. Higher elevation sections might still have snow patches.

Summer (mid-June to August): Peak season. Trail is dry and fully accessible. Expect crowds on weekends. Falls have less volume but still impressive. Wildflowers bloom in July.

Fall (September to October): Fewer crowds. Fall colors show up, especially larches turning gold. Falls have moderate flow. Weather can be unpredictable.

Winter (November to April): Trail is snow covered and requires snowshoes or spikes. Only for experienced winter hikers. Falls partially freeze creating ice formations.

Trail Conditions and Difficulty

AllTrails rates this as a moderate hike. Here’s what that means in practice:

The first half is relatively easy with gentle terrain. Most people in decent shape handle this fine. The second half has the climbing with rockier, steeper sections. You’ll be breathing harder but it’s not extreme.

The rocky terrain near the falls requires attention. Wear proper footwear. Tennis shoes might work for some people, but hiking boots with ankle support are better, especially if you’re not a regular hiker.

The trail is well marked. You won’t get lost. It’s a single path to the falls and back.

What to Bring

Essential: • Water (at least 1 liter per person) • Hiking boots or sturdy shoes with good tread • Bear spray (bears are active in this area) • Layers (weather changes quickly in the mountains)

Recommended: • Camera or phone for photos • Snacks or lunch to enjoy at the falls • Rain jacket (for falls spray or afternoon thunderstorms) • Hiking poles if you use them • Small first aid kit

Seasonal: • Spring/Early Summer: Bug spray, rain gear • Summer: Sunscreen, hat, extra water • Fall: Extra layers, rain jacket • Winter: Spikes or snowshoes, winter gear

Trail Etiquette and Safety

Wildlife: This is bear country. Make noise while hiking, especially in brushy sections. Keep bear spray accessible. If you see a bear, back away slowly. Don’t run.

Dogs: Allowed on leash. Clean up after your dog and pack out waste. Keep dogs under control around other hikers.

Other Hikers: This trail gets busy. Step aside to let faster hikers pass. Uphill hikers have right of way, but most will step aside to catch their breath anyway.

Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in. Don’t leave trash, even biodegradable items like apple cores or orange peels. Stay on the trail to prevent erosion.

Nearby Amenities

After your hike, you have options nearby:

Holland Lake Lodge: Located near the trailhead. They offer dining and drinks. Call ahead to check if they’re open for day use.

Holland Lake Day Use Area: Public beach on the west side of the lake. Good spot for swimming or relaxing after your hike. Picnic tables available.

Holland Lake Campground: 38 campsites if you want to camp near the trailhead. Some sites require reservations, others are first-come, first-served. Has drinking water and vault toilets.

Extending Your Adventure

If you want more hiking, several longer trails branch off from this area:

Upper Holland Lake Trail: From the same trailhead, this continues past the falls to Upper Holland Lake. It’s 7 miles one way and much more strenuous. Only for experienced hikers.

Bob Marshall Wilderness Access: Several trails from Holland Lake enter the Bob Marshall Wilderness. These are backcountry routes requiring permits and preparation.

Local Services

Gas and Supplies: The Swan Valley Center is just a few miles north on 83. They’re pretty well stocked with food and supplies. Mission Mountain Mercantile has more food options and is about 10 miles north on highway 83 coming from Holland Lake.

Food: Hungry Bear Restaurant serves pizza. They’re typically open Wednesday through Sunday but call ahead to confirm.

Information: The Swan Lake Ranger District has more information about fire conditions, forest service cabin rentals and ecology. Stop by the Swan Lake Ranger station in Bigfork and get more detailed information.

Stay Nearby at Swan River Lodge

Swan River Lodge is a great base for exploring Holland Lake Falls and the rest of Swan Valley. We’re located just 10 minutes north of the turnoff to Holland Lake on Highway 83 in Condon.

After a day of hiking, come back to a comfortable condo with a full kitchen, WiFi, and space to spread out. Our location on 10 private acres gives you peace and quiet with Swan River access right behind the property.

Book your stay and explore Swan Valley from a comfortable home base. You’ll have easy access to Holland Lake Falls, other local trails, and all the outdoor activities the valley offers.

Bottom Line

Holland Lake Falls delivers what most hikers want: beautiful scenery, a manageable challenge, and a rewarding destination. The 3-mile round trip takes about 2 hours and works for anyone in decent shape.

You’ll get lake views, mountain scenery, and a beautiful waterfall without committing to an all-day adventure. The trail is well maintained and easy to follow. Just bring water, wear decent shoes, and carry bear spray.

This is the most popular hike in Swan Valley for a reason. It’s accessible, scenic, and consistently delivers a great experience. Add it to your Swan Valley itinerary.