Explore Columbia Falls, Montana: Gateway to Wilderness Adventure

Nestled at the doorstep of Glacier National Park, Columbia Falls invites adventurers to experience the untamed beauty of Northwest Montana. This charming mountain town serves as the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts, offering easy access to pristine wilderness while maintaining its authentic small-town character. With the rushing waters of the Flathead River carving through its landscape and the towering peaks of Glacier National Park on the horizon, Columbia Falls combines rugged natural beauty with warm Montana hospitality, creating an irresistible destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in the heart of Big Sky Country.

Quick Facts

Population: 5,308 (2020 Census)
County: Flathead
Founded: 1891, incorporated on April 26, 1909
Elevation: 3,087 ft
Known For: Gateway to Glacier National Park, outdoor recreation, Montana Veterans Home
Nearby Landmarks: Glacier National Park (17 miles), Hungry Horse Dam, Flathead River
Fun Fact: The town was originally named "Monaco," but "Falls" was added to avoid confusion with Columbus, Montana.

Notable People & Pop Culture

Braxton Mitchell – Montana State Representative and one of the youngest legislators in Montana history
Douglas Cordier – Educator and politician who served in the Montana Legislature
"The River Wild" (1994) – This thriller starring Meryl Streep and Kevin Bacon featured scenes filmed on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River near Columbia Falls

Top Things to Do in Columbia Falls

✧ Montana Vortex & House of Mystery – Experience gravity-defying optical illusions and mysterious phenomena at this unique roadside attraction
✧ Big Sky Waterpark – Montana's largest waterpark featuring slides, pools, and family fun during the summer months
✧ River's Edge Park – Enjoy 28 acres of riverside beauty with walking trails, a family fly fishing pond, and picnic areas along the Flathead River
✧ Glacier National Park – Explore over a million acres of pristine wilderness with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road

Local Industry & Economy

Columbia Falls has evolved from its historical roots as a timber and aluminum manufacturing hub to a diverse economy balancing traditional industries with tourism and outdoor recreation. The town was once dominated by the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company plant, which operated for over 60 years before closing in 2015. Today, the economic landscape includes small manufacturing, wood products, healthcare services, and a growing tourism sector. The Montana Veterans Home provides both healthcare services and employment opportunities. The town's strategic location as the gateway to Glacier National Park has fueled growth in hospitality, dining, and outdoor recreation businesses. Recent infrastructure improvements, including the $10 million Gateway to Glacier Safety and Mobility Improvement Project, demonstrate the community's commitment to sustainable economic development while preserving its authentic Montana character and natural surroundings.

History & Heritage

Columbia Falls traces its origins to 1891 when settlers established a village in anticipation of the Great Northern Railway's arrival. Originally named "Monaco," the town later became "Columbia Falls" to avoid confusion with Columbus, Montana. The city was officially incorporated on April 26, 1909. The timber industry played a crucial role in early development, with numerous sawmills operating in the area. In 1895, the State of Montana established the Montana Soldiers' Home (now Montana Veterans Home) on 160 acres of donated land, creating an enduring institution that continues to serve veterans today. The aluminum plant, opened in the 1950s, became a cornerstone of the local economy for decades. Throughout its history, Columbia Falls has maintained strong ties to the surrounding wilderness, with the establishment of Glacier National Park in 1910 eventually transforming the town into an important gateway community. The annual Heritage Days celebration, started in 1956, honors this rich history and continues as a beloved community tradition each July, featuring parades, carnivals, and the unique running of wild horses through town.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

Spring/Summer: Whitewater rafting on the Flathead River, hiking in Glacier National Park, fishing, mountain biking, golfing at Meadow Lake Golf Course, cooling off at Big Sky Waterpark
Fall/Winter: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling on extensive trail networks, ice fishing, and easy access to downhill skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort (16 miles away)
Annual Events: Heritage Days (last weekend in July) featuring parades, carnivals, and the running of wild horses; Night of Lights Parade in December; Columbia Falls Community Market (Thursdays, May-September)

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

Columbia Falls is conveniently located at the crossroads of adventure in Northwest Montana. The town sits along U.S. Highway 2, just 15 miles northeast of Kalispell and 17 miles from the west entrance of Glacier National Park. Visitors can fly into Glacier Park International Airport, located only 8 miles south of town. For train travelers, Amtrak's Empire Builder makes stops in nearby Whitefish and West Glacier. The North Fork Road begins in Columbia Falls and leads to the remote northern sections of Glacier National Park. Other nearby destinations include Whitefish (16 miles) with its mountain resort and charming downtown, the vast waters of Flathead Lake (30 miles), and the wilderness areas of the Flathead National Forest. Columbia Falls truly serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring the natural wonders of Northwest Montana, with most major attractions accessible within a 30-minute drive.

Where to Stay in Columbia Falls

Columbia Falls offers a diverse range of accommodations that cater to every type of traveler exploring Northwest Montana. Visitors can choose from comfortable hotels and motels along Highway 2, providing convenient access to Glacier National Park and other attractions. For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, several campgrounds and RV parks offer sites along the Flathead River and in forested settings. Vacation rentals, from cozy cabins to luxury mountain homes, have become increasingly popular, allowing guests to experience authentic Montana living. Bed and breakfasts provide personalized hospitality with local knowledge and home-cooked meals. Many accommodations feature stunning mountain views and rustic-chic décor that reflects the region's natural beauty and outdoor heritage. While Columbia Falls maintains its small-town charm, its lodging options have expanded to meet growing tourism demands, though booking well in advance is recommended during the busy summer season when Glacier National Park visitation peaks.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Columbia Falls? Add it to your Montana travel itinerary and discover the charm, history, and adventure waiting in Big Sky Country. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor experiences in Glacier National Park, a relaxing float down the Flathead River, or an authentic taste of Montana culture, Columbia Falls offers the perfect blend of wilderness access and small-town hospitality.

Sources: Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Columbia Falls, Columbia Falls Historical Society, Montana Office of Tourism, Wikipedia, Tripadvisor