From Plane to Forest: Ousel Falls

Montana Memories

After checking into our hotel, we couldn’t wait to get out into the Montana air. Instead of settling in, we headed straight to the trailhead- ready to stretch our legs and soak in the wilderness. It’s so grounding stepping from the buzz of travel into the stillness of the forest. Towering trees, the distant roar of Ousel Falls, and that unmistakable scent of pine were the perfect way to start our first Montana adventure. Our hike through the mossy, chilly trails became an instant core memory, setting the tone for a trip filled with wonder, movement, and family mayhem in the best way.

Tucked away in the heart of Big Sky, Montana, Ousel Falls felt like something straight out of a storybook. The sound of rushing water echoed through the trees before we even saw it – loud, wild, and full of power. And when we reached the falls? It was absolutely breathtaking.

The waterfall was gushing and mighty, pouring with such force that mist hit our faces from yards away. We stood there for a while, just letting the sound and spray wash over us, in complete awe of Mother Nature doing her thing.

The entire trail was surrounded by a forest so deep and green, it felt like the trees wrapped around us like a blanket. It was quiet, peaceful, and refreshingly chilly – exactly the kind of escape you don’t realize you’ve been needing until you’re standing in it.

Mai Boys had an absolute blast. They ran ahead on the trails, pausing to climb on rocks, peeking through branches, and dipping their hands in streams. Watching their faces light up when they caught a glimpse of wildlife or threw rocks near the stream was everything. That sense of wonder, that joy in discovering something new, is one of my favorite parts of adventuring with them.

This hike reminded me that sometimes the best memories are made in the middle of nowhere, with nothing but trees overhead and the sound of water crashing nearby. Ousel Falls wasn’t just another stop on our trip- it was a moment that grounded us, made us pause, and let us truly feel how beautiful this world can be when we take the time to explore it together.