Montana is home to over 120 named waterfalls, and there are many cascades hiding in our mountains and forests that have yet to be discovered or named. And while some of them will require a lengthy hike to reach, the Treasure State has plenty of gems that are very easily accessible.
Kootenai Falls is probably the easiest waterfall to reach that doesn’t require entering a national park. And while it might be a bit of a drive for most Montanans, it’s a road that’s well worth taking.
Kootenai Falls sits on the Kootenai River, close to Highway 2 in between Libby and Troy.
Troy Smith / Flickr That part of Northwest Montana is fairly sparsely populated, which is why the drive for most Montanans will be several hours in order to reach the waterfall. But once you’re there, accessing it is a breeze.
The Kootenai River enters a canyon downstream from Libby, eventually flowing over Kootenai Falls.
Jorn / TripAdvisor The falls and surrounding area are considered sacred to the Kootenai tribe, whose ancestors were born and raised in the area. It’s easy to see why such a beautiful space would be considered sacred—and it’s important to keep that in mind and be respectful when you visit.
To access the falls, you’ll simply pull into a well-marked designated parking area and follow the signs to the swinging bridge.
Troy Smith / Flickr The path from your vehicle to the waterfall is less than half a mile.
The swinging bridge sits at an elevation of 2,100 feet, and it offers amazing views of the Kootenai River Gorge.
Holly Hayes / Flickr The bridge is extremely sturdy, and most find it easy to cross. But if you have a fear of heights, you’ll want to note that it is suspended fairly high above the river. That’s simply so that no flood waters can take it out.
Kootenai Falls is the largest undammed falls in Montana.
Mike C / TripAdvisor It’s a major attraction to those passing through, yet the area never seems to be overly crowded.
When you arrive, the sound of the rushing waters will completely relax you.
Troy Smith / Flickr Luckily, there are benches and boulders in the area so you can hang out and have a picnic while you enjoy the breathtaking views.
It’s lovely to have such a beautiful waterfall that’s well within our reach.
Grizingraz / TripAdvisor Visiting Kootenai Falls should be on every Montanan’s bucket list.
Have you ever visited Kootenai Falls?
Troy Smith / Flickr
That part of Northwest Montana is fairly sparsely populated, which is why the drive for most Montanans will be several hours in order to reach the waterfall. But once you’re there, accessing it is a breeze.
Jorn / TripAdvisor
The falls and surrounding area are considered sacred to the Kootenai tribe, whose ancestors were born and raised in the area. It’s easy to see why such a beautiful space would be considered sacred—and it’s important to keep that in mind and be respectful when you visit.
The path from your vehicle to the waterfall is less than half a mile.
Holly Hayes / Flickr
The bridge is extremely sturdy, and most find it easy to cross. But if you have a fear of heights, you’ll want to note that it is suspended fairly high above the river. That’s simply so that no flood waters can take it out.
Mike C / TripAdvisor
It’s a major attraction to those passing through, yet the area never seems to be overly crowded.
Luckily, there are benches and boulders in the area so you can hang out and have a picnic while you enjoy the breathtaking views.
Grizingraz / TripAdvisor
Visiting Kootenai Falls should be on every Montanan’s bucket list.
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Address: Kootenai Falls, MT 59935, USA
