Montana has around 120 named waterfalls, although we’re betting the actual number of hidden cascades is much higher. That being said, Kootenai Falls is an underrated treasure. Not only is it the largest undammed waterfall in the state, but it’s also one of the biggest in the U.S.—and you could spend an entire afternoon taking in the views from the nearby swinging bridge.
Kootenai Falls is located in Lincoln County, just off U.S. Route 2 not far from Libby.
Troy Smith / Flickr The peaceful waterfall sits on the Kootenai River, attracting its share of locals and tourists alike.
But, while the waterfall is stunning, one of the main attractions to the area is the Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge.
Amy Meredith / Flickr Swinging bridges seem to have quite the draw in the Northwest, and although this is the best known one in Montana, this area is rarely crowded.
The enticing swinging bridge sits at an elevation of 2,100 feet, spanning the rushing river.
Holly Hayes / Flickr While those with a fear of heights aren’t always thrilled to cross it, most people will agree that the bridge is nice and sturdy and not a scary experience at all.
It all started many decades ago, when the original bridge was built to help the Forest Service access the area across the river to help fight forest fires.
Bjorn / Flickr But in 1984, a flood ripped through the area, destroying the bridge. The bridge was rebuilt on concrete piers, and it’s protected from future flooding by the Libby Dam.
Today, the bridge is mainly used by tourists on their way to take a closer look at the waterfall.
Holly Hayes / Flickr That being said, some do come just to check out the bridge. The views are that fantastic.
While you can access the area all year long (depending on the weather, of course), this area is best explored during warmer seasons.
Amy Meredith / Flickr If you’d rather not deal with a crowd, simply come on a weekday during the offseason. You just might have the entire area to yourself.
Kootenai Falls is magnificent, and the views from this bridge are remarkable.
turcottes78 / Flickr Add it to your Montana bucket list and see for yourself.
Have you ever crossed this beautiful bridge? What was it like?
Troy Smith / Flickr
The peaceful waterfall sits on the Kootenai River, attracting its share of locals and tourists alike.
Amy Meredith / Flickr
Swinging bridges seem to have quite the draw in the Northwest, and although this is the best known one in Montana, this area is rarely crowded.
Holly Hayes / Flickr
While those with a fear of heights aren’t always thrilled to cross it, most people will agree that the bridge is nice and sturdy and not a scary experience at all.
Bjorn / Flickr
But in 1984, a flood ripped through the area, destroying the bridge. The bridge was rebuilt on concrete piers, and it’s protected from future flooding by the Libby Dam.
That being said, some do come just to check out the bridge. The views are that fantastic.
If you’d rather not deal with a crowd, simply come on a weekday during the offseason. You just might have the entire area to yourself.
turcottes78 / Flickr
Add it to your Montana bucket list and see for yourself.
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Address: Kootenai Falls Suspension Bridge, Kootenai River Rd, Libby, MT 59923, USA
