Kootenai Falls & Swinging Bridge | A Montana Family Adventure

Sometimes the best adventures are right around the corner. On one of our trips to Montana, our family spent an afternoon hiking to Kootenai Falls and its famous swinging bridge. We packed some snacks, put on walking shoes, and set off. This adventure turned into one of those simple, memorable outings that everyone remembers.

When we lived in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, we were close to so many beautiful destinations. Kootenai Falls was an easy day trip. If you are looking for a fun family adventure in northwest Montana, this one is hard to beat.

Crossing the Train Bridge Walkway

The adventure starts before you even reach the falls. To get to the trail, you cross a walkway built over the train tracks. My kids thought this was the coolest part. At the end of the walkway is a see-through metal staircase, and they loved going down it and then climbing right back up. It sets the tone for a hike full of little thrills.

Easy Hike to Kootenai Falls

The trails near Kootenai Falls are easy enough for families with young kids. They wind through the forest beneath tall pines, over rocks and beside fallen logs. The paths are narrow in places and a little uneven, so they are walkable but not flat. A stroller would be tough here, so a child carrier is the better choice for babies and toddlers.

We took the short path down to a viewpoint of the falls first. There are a few rock-scrambling sections and spots to climb, which our kids loved. This is the kind of hike where young families can enjoy the whole experience without needing much endurance. Kootenai Falls itself is stunning, with rocky river edges and blue-green water.

The Scenic Kootenai River

The Kootenai River pours down the falls and rushes through the gorge below. The trail to the falls passes several picturesque river overlooks along the way. A fun fact to share with kids: Kootenai Falls is the largest undammed waterfall in Montana. Once you have taken in the views, you can head back and follow the trail in the other direction to the swinging bridge.

Adventure Across the Swinging Bridge

The swinging bridge is a suspended walking path stretched across the Kootenai River. It is also used by firefighters to reach the forest on the other side. Crossing it feels secure but still gives you that fun, suspended sway. My kids loved walking out to the middle and stopping to watch the river rush downstream beneath their feet.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Wear good shoes to protect your feet on the rocks and scrambling sections
• Bring water or another drink to stay hydrated
• Skip the stroller and pack a child carrier for babies and toddlers
• Parking is easy, and there is a bathroom and a snack shop at the trailhead
• Plan for about 2 hours to see the falls, cross the bridge, and explore along the way

Make a Day of It

We spent around two hours walking to the falls, soaking in the natural beauty, crossing to the swinging bridge, and exploring as we went. Back at the parking lot, we finished the day with ice cream cones from the snack shop. It was a perfect family outing: a little exercise, a lot of adventure, and memories our kids still talk about.

Is Kootenai Falls on your family’s Montana road trip list?