History: Established in 1891 and originally named "Monaco," Columbia Falls was renamed to avoid confusion with Columbus, Montana. The city was officially incorporated on April 26, 1909. The town's early development was closely tied to the timber industry and the Great Northern Railway. The Montana Veterans Home, established in 1895, remains an important local institution.
Population: 5,308 (2020 Census)
Things to Do in Columbia Falls
- Explore Glacier National Park - Just 17 miles away, offering stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Visit Montana Vortex & House of Mystery - Experience gravity-defying optical illusions
- Cool off at Big Sky Waterpark - Montana's largest waterpark with slides and pools
- Relax at River's Edge Park - 28 acres of riverside beauty with walking trails and picnic areas
- Tour the Hungry Horse Dam - One of the largest concrete arch dams in the United States
Seasonal Activities
Spring/Summer: Whitewater rafting on the Flathead River, hiking in Glacier National Park, fishing, mountain biking, golfing at Meadow Lake Golf Course, visiting 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)
Local Events
- Heritage Days (July) - Annual celebration featuring parades, carnivals, and the unique running of wild horses through town
- Huckleberry Festival (August) - Celebrates the region's famous huckleberries with food, crafts, and entertainment
- Christmas in Columbia Falls (December) - Holiday festivities including tree lighting and holiday market
Interesting Facts
- Columbia Falls was proclaimed the healthiest town in Montana in 1894
- The town was originally named "Monaco" but was changed to avoid confusion with Columbus, Montana
- Columbia Falls serves as the western gateway to Glacier National Park, one of America's most spectacular national parks
- The Montana Veterans Home, established in 1895, is one of the oldest continuously operating veterans' homes in the United States
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.