Kootenai Falls Suspension Bridge — Attraction in Libby

Amazing Attraction for Anyone!!

Finally, after all these years of seeing the signs on the highway, I decided to make it a point of seeing this wonder of nature. On an overcast day with on and off rain, I made my way to the falls after spending most of the morning hiking and viewing Lake Pend Orielle. I came up through the road from Clark Fork and pulled into the park's parking area. I was happy to see other cars and vehicles parked so I knew there would be people around. I made my way into the trail area and began my adventure.

The first thing I came across on the trail was the tower staircase, which can be daunting for kids and the elderly, so be wary of this as it has many many stairs to climb. I then made my way to the trailhead where you have two choices, Falls or the Swinging Bridge. I went to the falls first and found some very spectacular views. Keep in mind that these are smaller falls so if you're thinking it's anything like Niagara Falls, it's not. The falls though in the setting of a wooded gorge is worth the hike, as its a stunning area with many views of the mountains, the river and the valley. There many great vantage points in which you can take photos.

Next up was the swinging bridge, which I have to say be careful when hiking here on a rainy day, as there is mud, water, rocks and it can be very slippery. Despite that, it was a very nice hike from the falls to the swinging bridge. Along the way I saw a few people hiking, I met a nice family from Montana, and I saw a family on the other side of the river camping and fishing. I am mentioning this as it is a place where families with children can visit.

Once again I was met with the majesty of the area. This is a great spot for taking photos to form the river banks, and while you are on the bridge. It wasn't very windy that day, just raining a little on and off so the bridge did not really 'swing'. I spent a couple of hours in the area checking out the river and the scenery from both sides of the bridge.

This is a fantastic wilderness area with great trails and great views. You could spend a couple of hours there or as I witnessed, people camp in the area as well. I was very happy that I finally made it. If you are just there to check it out, I recommended planning for a few hours at least, as there is quite a bit to see and do. One last thing, this is a wilderness area so go to the bathroom before you head out on the trails as I witnessed one panicked mother who didn't know what to do with her young child who had to go to the bathroom. Plan...

The stand before the trail has some refreshing hukleberry lemonade for before or after hiking as well as offering cute novelties. My experiance with staff there was enjoyable welcoming and informative. I also stumbled on a local who was picking up the trail and making sure more could enjoy the area in a prestine state. With that never forget to leave no trace for the generations to come. I Highly recommend going to the other trail as well. the stairs are a punched out metal grate so i would not bring a dog i could not carry up and down. The grate can hurt paws. The main trail to the bridge is nice and well maintained but slightly longer. if you do take the shorter trail with direct access you can touch or even climb the falls surprisingly tho it is advised aghanst. When I was there i saw a couple taking photos standing on it. That being said i highly suggest not to do so esspecially since the current is strong enough to be majestic yet soothing with its powerful roar. It may be absolutely stunning and possibly the picture of a life time but please know the reward is not worth risking life and limb. They do have a red sign warning of it being dangerous and beautiful. So Please consider your personal risk the risk to bystanders as well as that of any rescue team that may need to get involved. Stay safe and...

If you love trains, flowing water, waterfall, rock scrambling, and suspension bridges? If you answered yes to all these questions, then go to Kootenai Falls. Lots of parking spaces right along the road (can't miss it), nice hard packed dirt path down to the river (it's a decent uphill climb back out but not too long), a nice view of the trains rushing by from the bridge, and then the wonderful, rushing, roaring river. It really is quite nice. I was here in late september and the water was lower than in the spring which is better because you can scramble and climb your way out into the middle of the river on islands of rock to get closer to the falls. The falls, which are more like rapids on steroids than falls, are still a lovely sight all the same. And don't miss the suspension bridge, what a lovely view up there on that seemingly rickety swaying contraption! Don't miss it. Enjoy...