You don’t have to hike for miles to see amazing views in Montana. In fact, in some cases, you barely have to leave the parking lot. At just 1.6 miles in length and surrounded by incredible scenery with every step, the Kootenai Falls Trail is a dream come true… but before you see the waterfall, you’ll have to cross quite a bridge.
Kootenai Falls is one of Northwest Montana’s top attractions.
Troy Smith / Flickr It sits on the Kootenai River between Libby and Troy. The falls and surrounding area are considered sacred by the Kootenai tribe, whose ancestors inhabited the area.
The trek to the falls is nice, easy, and pleasant, and it’s just a short walk from a public parking lot.
Karen Jones / alltrails.com The fact that it’s incredibly scenic doesn’t hurt.
Before you reach the waterfall, you’ll have to conquer any fears of heights or bridges you may have.
Daniel Mitchell / alltrails.com The hike to the falls includes a trip over the Kootenai Swinging Bridge.
The Kootenai Swinging Bridge is sturdy and strong, stretching over the Kootenai River.
Daryl Lawrick / alltrails.com It was initially built by the Forest Service to access forest fires across the river.
The original bridge was destroyed by a flood in 1948, but it was rebuilt on concrete piers and is now protected from flooding by Libby Dam.
Angela Goodwin / alltrails.com The bridge sits at an elevation of 2,100 feet and is accessible during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Crossing the bridge can be a bit exhilarating, but most Montanans agree that it isn’t scary.
Holly Hayes / Flickr Plus, the view of the falls and the surrounding area is absolutely breathtaking, so you’ll want to take your time when crossing so you can snap a few photos.
The Kootenai Falls Trail is located seven miles east of Troy, Montana and 12 miles west of Libby.
Troy Smith / Flickr To reach it, just look for Milepost 21 on Highway 2 and you’ll find the parking area.
Address: Kootenai River Road, Libby, MT, 59923
Troy Smith / Flickr
It sits on the Kootenai River between Libby and Troy. The falls and surrounding area are considered sacred by the Kootenai tribe, whose ancestors inhabited the area.
Karen Jones / alltrails.com
The fact that it’s incredibly scenic doesn’t hurt.
Daniel Mitchell / alltrails.com
The hike to the falls includes a trip over the Kootenai Swinging Bridge.
Daryl Lawrick / alltrails.com
It was initially built by the Forest Service to access forest fires across the river.
Angela Goodwin / alltrails.com
The bridge sits at an elevation of 2,100 feet and is accessible during the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
Holly Hayes / Flickr
Plus, the view of the falls and the surrounding area is absolutely breathtaking, so you’ll want to take your time when crossing so you can snap a few photos.
To reach it, just look for Milepost 21 on Highway 2 and you’ll find the parking area.
Have you crossed the Kootenai Swinging Bridge to marvel out the fantastic falls?
Some of Montana’s best trails are also the shortest and sweetest. This easy waterfall hike is also a must.
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