Montana has a lot of bridges — over 5,000, to be precise. And while all are memorable, some are just a little extra special. Like the bridge at Kootenai Falls. Near the towns of Troy and Libby, the Kootenai River enters a canyon and flows over the eponymous waterfalls — one of the largest free-flowing falls in the Pacific Northwest. It’s truly a must-visit natural wonder in Montana. This swinging bridge in Montana has the most scenic views, and takes you to the state’s largest waterfall, too! It’s the kind of experience that’s almost magical, and will have you all heart-eyes-emoji for The Treasure State. Let’s take a look:

There's no denying that Kootenai Falls is breathtaking.
Grizingraz/TripAdvisor
Located near Libby in Northwest Montana, it's a top destination for tourists and locals alike -- and for good reason. It also happens to be the largest undammed waterfall in the state.
The walk to the waterfall is quite easy; but first, you'll have to cross this epic foot bridge.
Holly Hayes/Flickr
But don't worry -- even if you have a fear of heights, this bridge is not as intimidating as it seems. For starters, the walk across is steady and sturdy -- you won't be blowing around with a shaky step situation whilst trying to cross.
The bridge was built by the Forest Service to access forest fires across the Kootenai River.
Holly Hayes/Flickr
After it was destroyed by a flood in 1948, it was rebuilt on concrete piers. And lest that spark any concern, know that the Libby Dam now protects the area from future floods. Phew!

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Not only is this bridge an easy walk (we promise!), it also offers amazing views.
Holly Hayes/Flickr
Slow down and take in the scenery as you cross.
This swinging bridge in Montana sits at an elevation of 2,100 feet and it's surrounded by the beauty of the Kootenai River gorge.
Holly Hayes/Flickr
The waterfall may be the trail's main attraction -- but the bridge is a close second. Add it all up, and you've got something truly magical.
The falls and swinging bridge are open all year long.
BillPatti/Flickr
And Kootenai Falls is truly a beautiful place in Montana to explore any time of the year. (However, in the case of inclement weather, the swinging bridge may be closed, so it's best to check the Montana Wilderness Association website before you go.)
Kootenai Falls should really be on every Montanan's bucket list.
Brian C/TripAdvisor
It's sacred grounds here. (In fact, to the Kootenai tribe, the falls is hallowed grounds -- the center of the world, and a place where tribal members can commune with higher powers.) And we agree -- this place is spiritual, no matter what your beliefs are.

Have you been to this epic swinging bridge in Montana? Kootenai Falls is definitely something to put on your Montana bucket list, for sure. (These 10 memorable day trips should also be on your must-do list for the state!)

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Swinging Bridge In Montana

Sarah | February 10, 2021

Does Montana have any other unique bridges?

Kootenai Falls may be the best swinging bridge in Montana, but it's certainly not the only unique bridge in The Treasure State! Natural Pier Bridge in Alberton is a true Montana treasure -- you'll find it on the South Frontage Road at the head of the spectacular Alberton Gorge. And when you see it, you'll realize how much it enhances the landscape. It will make you swoon for our beautiful state! And if you're looking for a pedestrian bridge in Montana, the Thompson Falls High Bridge is incredible. This bridge was built in 1911 and renovated to be pedestrian-friendly in 2010. Walk across and you'll see stunning view of the dam, fish ladder, and a beautiful vista of the Clark Fork River.

Are there any footbridges in Montana?

What is it about bridges that is just so charming? (We love bridges around here, too!) These seven hikes in Montana all lead to fairy-tale perfect footbridges -- in addition to being utterly, breathtakingly, beautiful. And the hike at St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail in Glacier National Park is straight out of a fairytale. In addition to taking hikers past not one, but two breathtaking waterfalls, the trailhead for this moderate-level, 2.9-mile trek is located near East Glacier Park Village, and the wooden footbridge is definitely one of the highlights.

What's the absolute coolest bridge in Montana?

While we don't like to play favorites... we're going to play favorites here and say that Koocanusa Bridge, the subject of this entire article, is the absolute coolest bridge in Montana. And that's saying a lot: there are just over 5,000 bridges in the state of Montana (a number that seems pretty high until you take into consideration that our state is the fourth largest in the nation). And if you’ve ever crossed the Koocanusa Bridge, you know it’s truly something special. Not only is it the tallest bridge in the Treasure State, but the views are absolutely stunning. Go there now!

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