Would You Cross This Famous Montana Swinging Bridge?

This past weekend I decided to head up to Northwest Montana for a little adventure. My final stop was Libby for a chainsaw carving festival (yes, it was just as cool as it sounds), but of course I had to make some scenic pit stops along the way. At the very top of my list? The famous Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

The bridge hangs high above the turquoise waters of the Kootenai River, right at the base of the roaring falls, and the views are a full 360 degrees of jaw-dropping beauty. My advice: get there early. I mean before 8 am early. The hike itself is short and easy, which makes it super popular, and the later it gets the more people you will be sharing that swaying, bouncing bridge with. I showed up at 9 am and already had a handful of brave souls bouncing around with me.

The bridge was built by the Forest Service and it offers one of the best views of the Kootenai River Gorge just below the falls. Speaking of the falls, do not skip them. They are one of the largest free-flowing waterfalls in the entire Northwest, and you will be hypnotized by the rushing water that shifts from deep blues to glowing greens.

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After the hike, the cedar-covered picnic area is the perfect spot to relax, with tables and BBQ grills ready to go. And fun fact, according to LibbyMT.com the Kootenai Falls is considered a sacred place by Native tribes, a spot where people connected with spiritual forces. Standing there, surrounded by the river and mountains, it is easy to see why.