Top 19 Things To Do In Columbia Falls, MT

things to do in Columbia-Falls MT
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Nestled in a corner in the Flathead Valley, Columbia Falls is the heart of the Rocky Mountains and is a paradise for outdoor recreationists. Situated minutes away from Flathead River, Columbia Falls is the southwestern gateway to Glacier National Park and is frequented by travellers interested in skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling. The region is also well known for activities such as golfing, river rafting, llama-guided hiking and fly fishing. It boasts Montana hospitality and entertainment activities for the whole family. Whether you’re looking to take on the flavours of Montana or participate in outdoor recreation such as cross-country skiing and hiking, the following list of things to do in Columbia Falls, MT, has you covered.

For a place to stay in town, check our guide on the best Airbnb vacation rentals too.

1. Spend the day at Big Sky Waterpark

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Big Sky Waterpark on Wednesday, May 30, 2012

If you’re planning a family getaway to Columbia Falls, add Big Sky Waterpark to your itinerary, and your kids will surely thank you for it! This local waterpark features four thrilling waterslides and other attractions on land, including miniature golf and wall climbing. Amenities such as picnic areas and concessionaires are also available.

Big Sky Waterpark

Address: 7211 Hwy 2 E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States

Website: Big Sky Waterpark

Price: 17.99 - 22.99 USD

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2. Have fun with optical illusions at Montana Vortex and House of Mystery

House of Mystery at Montana Vortex
Source: Photo by Flickr user sporst used under CC BY 2.0

Located on the outskirts of the city, Montana Vortex is worth the drive for the chance to experience something unique. Native Americans discovered the vortex sometime in 1970, and the shack was added in order to make it easier to spot and access. You’ll pass through a marked trail to the House of Mystery, which tilts to one side. There are various visual illusions to see - including one where you appear to shrink - and the owners will take you through them on an hour-long tour. There’s also a gift shop and picnic spot on-site. This is a roadside attraction that you and your family might enjoy!

Montana Vortex and House of Mystery

Address: 7800 U.S, Hwy 2 E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States

Website: Montana Vortex and House of Mystery

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 8 - 12 USD

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3. Explore Glacier National Park with Glacier Adventure Guides

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

At home in the mountains. There are no negatives in nature. A multi day tour near Avalanche Creek in Glacier National...

Posted by Glacier Adventure Guides on Monday, January 11, 2021

Those travelling to Columbia Falls to explore Glacier National Park should definitely enlist the help of Glacier Adventure Guides. This professional guide service will help you explore the park through various tours. Choose from their wide selection of adventures, which include cross-country ski tours, snowshoeing tours, ice climbing, and winter camping. You can also book other activities such as guided drives, day hikes, and rock climbing. If you want to personalize your trip, custom itineraries are available.

Glacier Adventure Guides

Address: 24 7th St W, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States

Website: Glacier Adventure Guides

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4. Try handcrafted beer at Backslope Brewing

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Backslope Brewing is the perfect place to stop by after a long day of adventures. After all, what better way to cap off the day than with a delicious hand-crafted brew? Their taproom offers the ideal spot to hang out with friends and enjoy a few drinks. Their brews include the Nitro Tap, a Scotch ale, Been Untrue, which is gluten-free, and Let Me Ride, an IPA with Vic Secret and Mosaic hops. The selection is subject to change, so be sure to ask about what’s on rotation. Sandwiches and small plates are available.

Backslope Brewing

Address: 1107 9th St W, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States

Website: Backslope Brewing

Opening hours: 11am - 8pm (daily)

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5. Go ziplining at Glacier Ziplines

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Looking for more outdoor adventures in Columbia Falls? Go ziplining at Glacier Ziplines. Sign up for their 7-Zipline Canopy Tour, which includes zip lining off an 80-ft (24-m) tower and enjoying excellent views of Flathead River and Bad Rock Canyon. You’ll also be ziplining from one platform to the next. For your safety, you’ll be accompanied by two well-trained guides throughout the tour.

Glacier Ziplines

Address: 7840 Hwy 2 E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States

Website: Glacier Ziplines

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6. Enjoy quality time with family at Marantette Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Are you wondering what to do in Columbia Falls, MT, with your family? Formerly known as GCA Park, Marantette Park is a beautiful little park with a covered picnic area and updated amenities that cater to people of all ages. The park is a great bandshell for concerts and events. It also features a concert series every summer with Flathead Valley’s favourite bands and band-era music. This is the perfect place for a relaxing day out with the family.

Marantette Park

Address: 133 13th St E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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7. Soak up stunning sunsets at Bad Rock Canyon

BNSF eastbound oil train in Bad Rock Canyon
Source: Photo by Flickr user Roy Luck used under CC BY 2.0

Are you curious about what to see in Columbia Falls, MT? Located 2.6 mi (4.2 km) to the east of Columbia Falls, Bad Rock Canyon is a gateway to the wilderness areas of Hungry Horse Dam, Bob Marshall Wilderness, and Glacier National Park. Flathead River flows through the canyon with a spring on the southern side that is used as a water source by many residents. The canyon was a part of the buffalo trail for centuries, stretching from the Rockies to the hunting grounds of Great Plains.

Bad Rock Canyon

Address: Columbia Falls, Montana

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

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8. Play baseball at Fenholt Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Fenholt Park is one of the three grounds that offer baseball facilities in town. With great views and a character that sets itself apart, Fenholt Park is a great option for a ballgame with your friends and family. The park is a relaxing retreat from the downtown area and also leads to picturesque walking paths along Flathead River. This attraction is a must-visit if you and your family love baseball.

Fenholt Park

Address: 9th St E and, 3rd Ave E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States

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9. Enjoy a game of soccer at Horine Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

With a wide array of facilities and lush fields, Horine Park is an ideal place to play a game of soccer. Horine Park features youth and high school soccer fields and a play area, as well as a skateboard ramp. Whether it is a friendly kickabout or an eleven-on-eleven match, grab your friends and catch the soccer fever in Horine Park.

Horine Park

Address: 11 Beth Rd, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

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10. Swing a club at Meadow Lake Golf Course

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Meadow Lake Golf Course on Saturday, March 24, 2012

Located on the west edge of Columbia Falls at Meadow Lake Golf Resort, the Meadow Lake Golf Course is an 18-hole championship course that is ideal for family reunions and corporate meetings. Rated as one of the best public play golf courses in Montana, the staff can help you plan the perfect Montana golf vacation or a group outing by coordinating the golf tee times, scoring, driving ranges, food, and beverages for your group. Thhey have also partnered with some of the best properties in Flathead Valley to offer accommodation in classic villas and hotels with urban sophistications and comforts. The on-site Pro Shop offers beer, wine, and food. Golf lessons with certified golf teaching professionals are available with an advanced reservation.

Meadow Lake Golf Course

Address: 490 St. Andrews Drive, Columbia Falls, MT 59912

Website: Meadow Lake Golf Course

Opening hours: 9.30 am - 6.30 pm (daily)

Price: From 35 USD

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11. Have fun at Depot Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Situated on the intersection of Railroad Street and Nucleus Avenue, Depot Park is a small park with an antique train engine that is great fun for kids to climb and play around in. The train is one of the oldest in the country that was used to run lumber to the main railroad lines, and it’s an attraction that fascinates old train enthusiasts and kiddies alike. The park is at the edge of the town and is a great place to visit with your family.

Depot Park

Address: Railroad St E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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12. Drop by The Montana Adventure Stop

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

The show is about to start! Please, ladies and gents, we know you're excited, but no pushing or shoving when you enter the theater! Purchase your ticket now! http://www.montanaadventurestop.com/

Posted by Montana Adventure Stop on Tuesday, July 25, 2017

This unique attraction is tucked at the back of a gas station and offers state-of-the-art virtual reality experiences such as hunting and waterslides. The theatre can accommodate a maximum of eight persons and offers ski goggles-sized headsets that take the viewers on a 360-degree virtual guided experience with amazing views of Flathead Lake. The theatre also has a convenience and maintenance store with a selection of beers, wines, snacks, and ice creams.

The Montana Adventure Stop

Address: 7358 Hwy 2 E, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Website: The Montana Adventure Stop

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 7am - 9pm; Sun: 8am - 6pm

Price: 10 USD

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13. Have a picnic at Columbia Falls Community Garden

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Aaah, reaping the benefits... What’s your favorite thing coming out of the garden these days?

Posted by Columbia Falls Community Garden on Thursday, August 27, 2020

With 18 garden plots, Columbia Falls Community Garden was established in 2010 at the entrance of River’s Edge Park. The garden features beds of onions, raspberries, garlic, blueberries, strawberries, plenty of herbs and a dedicated food bank plot. One of their community services includes delivering fresh produce to Columbia Falls Food Bank, with the harvest season running from June to September. This tourist attraction in Columbia Falls, MT, offers a picnic table, tool shed, running water and tools for gardeners. With scenic walking paths that lead to Flathead River, the park features a vast landscape and is ideal for a relaxing getaway from the bustles of downtown.

Columbia Falls Community Garden

Address: Columbia Falls, Montana 59912, USA, Montana, USA 59912

Website: Columbia Falls Community Garden

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14. Go camping at Glacier Peaks RV Park & Campground

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Need another reason to stay with us at Glacier Peaks RV Park this year? How about this... we are SURROUNDED by beautiful...

Posted by Glacier Peaks RV Park on Saturday, July 7, 2018

Glacier Peaks RV Park and Campground offers full-size RV spaces, sleeper cabins and deluxe cabins, with all necessary amenities and comforts. The campsite is part of an extensive national park with easy access to Glacier National Park and the shopping options at Kalispell. The amenities at the park include Wifi, pull-through sites, public phone, big rig access, and tent camping facilities.

Glacier Peaks RV Park & Campground

Address: 3185 Mt Highway 40 W, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, United States

Website: Glacier Peaks RV Park & Campground

Price: From 30 USD

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15. Dance the night away at Blue Moon Nite Club

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

One Week from today it's RODEO TIME at the Blue Moon 7 pm Thursday Night May 30th all your Broncs, Bulls, Barrel Racing and Roping action you can handle Don't miss the First Rodeo of the Year.

Posted by Blue Moon Nite Club, Casino & Grill on Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Opened in the 1940s during the construction of the Hungry Horse Dam, Blue Moon Nite Club has undergone a transformation from a bar to a bar and casino, and now to a ‘bar, casino and grill’. Located close to Glacier Park International Airport, this establishment features live entertainment, pool tables, a touchtone jukebox, and a casino. The club also hosts ladies’ night on Wednesdays with free champagne for all the ladies and a happy hour with a dollar off every beverage.

Blue Moon Nite Club

Address: 6105 Highway 2 West, Columbia Falls, Montana 59912, U.S.A.

Website: Blue Moon Nite Club

Opening hours: 11am - 2am (daily)

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16. Stop by Three Forks Grille for a delicious meal

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Pacific King Salmon is in season. Here’s a look at our special from Friday night. Come in and see tonight’s creations!

Posted by Three Forks Grille on Saturday, July 11, 2020

Three Forks Grille is a casual eatery that features Rocky Mountain fare with an Italian flair. Located in Nucleus Avenue, the restaurant serves traditional and contemporary dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their menu is seasonal, and guests savour delicious food in a cosy setting. The restaurant also features a brunch menu on Sundays that include breakfast risottos, veggie bowls, and buckwheat cakes. With a great selection of farm-to-table dishes, Three Forks Grille is the place to head to if you are looking for great food made fresh.

Three Forks Grille

Address: 729 Nucleus Ave, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Website: Three Forks Grille

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 5pm - 9pm; Sun: 9 am - 1 pm, 5pm - 9 pm

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17. Catch your favorite game at Silver Bullet Bar & Casino

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by The New Silver Bullet Bar and Casino on Saturday, May 16, 2020

Silver Bullet Bar and Casino offers great food and beverages for lunch and dinner and features pool tables, casino, and live music. The happy and friendly staff and the warm ambience of the bar make it an ideal choice to watch your favourite games here with your friends. Their menu includes a great selection of burgers, pizzas, fries and drink specials.

Silver Bullet Bar & Casino

Address: 1700 Montana Hwy 206, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Website: Silver Bullet Bar & Casino

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 3pm - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 3pm - 2am; Sun: 3pm - 10pm

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18. Try your luck at Glacier Lanes & Casino

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Glacier Lanes on Sunday, November 11, 2018

With a wide microbrew selection and live music, Glacier Lanes and Casino is the place to head to if you are interested in bowling and gambling. The place features a spotless eight-lane facility and a bar with amazing food and slot machines. Kids can also choose to use the metal rollers at the alleys to help them bowl straight.

Glacier Lanes & Casino

Address: 307 Nucleus Ave, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Website: Glacier Lanes & Casino

Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 4pm - 12am; Thu - Sat: 12pm -12am; Sun: 12pm - 10pm (closed on Mon)

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19. Visit the Soldiers' Home Historic District

Soldiers Home Historic District
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Marc Roston used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Soldier’s Home Historic District is an old soldier’s home campus with nine listed buildings in the design of Victorian and Colonial Revival styles. Also known as the Montana State Soldier’s Home, the institution strives to serve local veterans. The campus was added to the country’s National Register of Historic Places in 1994. Drop by to take a look at this piece of history.

Soldiers' Home Historic District

Address: Veterans Drive, Columbia Falls, Montana

Opening hours: 12am - 12am (daily)

Price: Free

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Explore Flathead County's wilderness

Glacier National Park
Source: GoodFreePhotos

Just minutes away from Glacier National Park and boasting golf courses, ski resorts, roadside attractions, and a central location, the quaint city of Columbia Falls is the ideal wilderness getaway to escape to. Take your pick from the above list of things to do in Montana and go off the grid to embrace serenity and the splendour of nature and wildlife.

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Frequently asked questions about things to do in Columbia Falls, Montana


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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When Sidharth is not traveling or writing, he can be found honing his Spanish, indulging in Netflix binges, reading, swimming in the ocean, or simply daydreaming in a hammock.

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