Columbia Falls MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Columbia Falls, Montana.
1. Bad Rock Canyon
GATEWAY TO WILDERNESS
Bad Rock Canyon serves as the entryway to the Bob Marshall Wilderness, the Hungry Horse Dam, and Glacier National Park. Visitors can explore this natural wonder that showcases Montana's geological marvels and rich history. The canyon offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventure opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
2. Montana Vortex and House of Mystery
DEFYING NATURAL LAWS
The Montana Vortex and House of Mystery is one of Columbia Falls' most popular attractions where visitors experience unusual gravitational phenomena. Guests can witness balls rolling uphill, people appearing to change height, and other mind-bending optical illusions. This family-friendly attraction offers guided tours that explain the scientific theories behind these mysterious occurrences.
3. Big Sky Waterpark
SPLASHING SUMMER FUN
Big Sky Waterpark offers exciting water attractions for visitors of all ages during the summer months. The park features numerous water slides, a lazy river, and swimming pools perfect for cooling off on hot Montana days. Families can enjoy a full day of entertainment with additional dry attractions including mini-golf and bumper cars.
4. Meadow Lake Golf Course
SCENIC MOUNTAIN GOLFING
Meadow Lake Golf Course provides golfers with a picturesque 18-hole championship course nestled in the beautiful Montana landscape. Players can enjoy well-maintained fairways and greens with stunning mountain views in every direction. The course challenges golfers of all skill levels while offering a peaceful retreat in nature.
5. Flathead Lake Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Flathead Lake Winery welcomes visitors to sample locally produced wines in a charming tasting room setting. Guests can learn about the winemaking process while enjoying flights of various red and white wines crafted from regional grapes. The winery often pairs their tastings with local cheeses and charcuterie for a complete Montana culinary experience.
6. Glacier Lanes and Casino
BOWLING AND GAMING
Glacier Lanes and Casino combines bowling entertainment with gaming opportunities in a family-friendly environment. Visitors can enjoy bowling on well-maintained lanes while the casino section offers various gaming options for adults. The facility includes a restaurant and bar where guests can refuel between games.
7. Depot Park
HISTORIC TOWN CENTER
Depot Park serves as a central gathering place in downtown Columbia Falls with its green spaces and community facilities. The park hosts numerous town events throughout the year, including farmers markets, concerts, and festivals. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings while learning about local history through the park's monuments and displays.
8. Spoon Lake
PEACEFUL NATURAL RETREAT
Spoon Lake offers a tranquil natural setting for fishing, picnicking, and enjoying Montana's outdoor beauty. Visitors can cast a line for various fish species or simply relax along the shoreline surrounded by forest scenery. The lake provides a less crowded alternative to some of the region's more popular water destinations.
9. Middle Fork of the Flathead River
WILD RAFTING ADVENTURES
The Middle Fork of the Flathead River provides thrilling whitewater rafting opportunities with professionally guided tours available for all skill levels. Adventurers can experience Class II-III rapids while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness and wildlife. The river offers both exciting whitewater sections and peaceful scenic floating options depending on visitors' preferences.
10. Glacier Institute
EDUCATIONAL NATURE PROGRAMS
The Glacier Institute offers educational programs and field courses focused on the natural environment of Glacier National Park and the surrounding region. Participants can join expert-led hikes, workshops, and lectures designed to deepen their understanding of local ecology, geology, and wildlife. The institute provides opportunities for visitors of all ages to connect with nature through hands-on learning experiences.
11. Hungry Horse Dam and Recreation Area
ENGINEERING MARVEL
Hungry Horse Dam stands as an impressive engineering achievement with its 564-foot concrete arch towering over the South Fork of the Flathead River. Visitors can tour the dam, learn about its construction and hydroelectric operations, and enjoy panoramic views from the visitor center. The surrounding recreation area offers camping, hiking, boating, and fishing opportunities in a stunning mountain setting.
12. Whitefish Mountain Resort
YEAR-ROUND MOUNTAIN RECREATION
Whitefish Mountain Resort provides year-round outdoor activities with skiing and snowboarding in winter and mountain biking and scenic lift rides in summer. Visitors can enjoy over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain or tackle more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails depending on the season. The resort offers spectacular views of Glacier National Park, Flathead Valley, and the Canadian Rockies from its 6,817-foot summit.
13. Downtown Whitefish
CHARMING MOUNTAIN TOWN
Downtown Whitefish invites visitors to explore its charming streets filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and excellent dining options. The pedestrian-friendly town center combines historic architecture with modern amenities to create a welcoming atmosphere for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can find unique Montana-made souvenirs, enjoy farm-to-table cuisine, or simply relax at one of the many coffee shops and breweries.
14. Glacier National Park
CROWN OF THE CONTINENT
Glacier National Park encompasses over one million acres of pristine wilderness with more than 700 miles of hiking trails, 130 named lakes, and countless wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can drive the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, which traverses the Continental Divide and provides access to some of the park's most spectacular scenery. The park's diverse ecosystems support over 1,000 plant species and hundreds of animal species, including grizzly bears, mountain goats, and wolverines.
15. Flathead Lake
MONTANA'S NATURAL JEWEL
Flathead Lake stretches across nearly 200 square miles as the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities along its 185 miles of shoreline and crystal-clear waters. The lake is surrounded by charming communities, orchards, and vineyards that offer additional attractions and stunning views of the water against a mountain backdrop.