Posted in Montana Attractions June 21, 2021 by

This Terrifying Swinging Bridge In Montana Will Make Your Stomach Drop

Kootenai Falls is one of the most beautiful natural wonders of Montana. Kootenai Falls is one of the largest free-flowing falls in the Pacific Northwest, and it is truly a must-visit natural wonder in the Treasure State. And if you want the very best views of the stunning scenery surrounding this natural wonder, there’s no better way to see it than by crossing the Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge. 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. Walking across this bridge may not be for everyone, but if you’re not afraid of heights, it’s absolutely a trek worth taking.

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Troy Smith/Flickr
You’ll find the parking lot for the Falls just off Highway 2 between the towns of Troy and Libby. The Swinging Bridge is a short hike (less than a mile) from the parking lot.
Holly Hayes/Flickr
The Swinging Bridge was built by the Forest Service to allow them better access to forest fires across the river. It was destroyed by a major flood in 1948, but thanks to the protection of the Libby Dam and concrete piers, the rebuilt bridge has stayed safe.
N Vision Photos/Flickr
The bridge sits 100 feet above the waterway and is 210 feet long. But don’t worry, the large cables, wood and wire make it very sturdy.
Holly Hayes/Flickr
If you dare to cross the bridge, you’ll be rewarded with this incredible view. There truly are no better views in the Treasure State, than from atop the swinging bridge at Kootenai Falls in Montana.
Robyn Fleming/Flickr
Up to five people can cross the bridge at once... but if you're nervous, crossing one at a time might be best, to avoid shaking the bridge...
Bjorn/Flickr
Have you crossed this bridge before? Is this something you would dare to do?

 

Have you visited the swinging bridge at Kootenai Falls in Montana before? Did you cross this jaw-dropping bridge? For more adventures to have in the area, definitely check out this easy, one-mile trek.

Address: Kootenai Falls Suspension Bridge, Kootenai River Rd, Libby, MT 59923, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

swinging bridge at Kootenai Falls in Montana

June 26, 2021
Sarah

Are there any other infamous bridges in Montana?

Montana has a lot of bridges — over 5,000, to be precise. And while all are memorable, some are just a little extra special. The swinging bridge at Kootenai Falls in Montana is certainly the *most* infamous, but there’s another bridge that’s earned quite a reputation in the Treasure State, and that’s Snowden Bridge. Snowden Bridge is very close to Mondak — an old ghost town in Montana with a colorful past. At about the time the bridge was made, there was a lynching that took place in Mondak. To this day, locals claim to see a dead body floating near the bridge on a chunk of ice. Cars and trains once used the bridge. Nowadays, it’s only used by trains. A haunting and mysterious place to visit, the rumors only add to its intrigue.

What’s the most dangerous hike in Montana?

The most dangerous hike in Montana is located in Glacier National Park. Called either Apgar Trail or Huckleberry Trail, many rate this advanced hikers’ destination as one the most dangerous in the United States. The steep and rocky path is sometimes riddled with grizzlies, ice, or even fire, but it also provides splendid vistas. With great risk comes great reward… but this trek should only be attempted by seasoned hikers only!

What are some hikes around Kootenai Falls in Montana?

The Kootenai Swinging Bridge Trail is a short, mile-long hike that leads to the beautiful Kootenai Falls — one of the largest free-flowing falls in the Pacific Northwest. It’s truly a must-visit natural wonder in Montana. You’ll get front-row access to this waterfall along the eponymous Kootenai Swinging Bridge Trail, a short-and-sweet trek that takes you right to the infamous swinging bridge. Conquer the bridge, and you’ll be rewarded with a totally beautiful waterfall finish!

Address: Kootenai Falls Suspension Bridge, Kootenai River Rd, Libby, MT 59923, USA