Troy, Montana is a rugged mountain town with big scenery and a quiet, local feel. Set along U.S. Highway 2 in Lincoln County, on the banks of the Kootenai River, it sits at Montana’s lowest elevation point and is framed by the Cabinet and Purcell Mountains.
Troy is more than a quiet border town. It is a gateway to roaring waterfalls, ancient cedars, river recreation, and wild beauty without resort town prices.
1. Walking the Kootenai Falls and Swinging Bridge
At a Glance:
- Location: Kootenai Falls Trailhead, Highway 2, Troy, MT 59935
- Website: Alltrails.com
- Best Time to Visit: May through October, with spring best for peak water flow
- Cost: Free
- Reservations: Not required
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Kootenai Falls is one of the most powerful sights near Troy, and it earns its reputation fast. A short, family friendly trail leads from the parking area down toward the roar of the Kootenai River, where turquoise water rushes through rock and drops with serious force.
Known as Montana’s largest undammed waterfall, the falls feel wild, loud, and refreshing all at once. The nearby swinging bridge adds a small thrill to the visit, stretching across the canyon above fast moving water.
It sways just enough to make people smile, grip the railing, and take a few careful steps. The area is also famous for its film appearances in movies like The River Wild and The Revenant.
For travelers crossing northwest Montana, this stop gives a huge payoff without a long hike, entrance fee, or complicated plan. Bring sturdy shoes and keep close watch on kids near viewpoints.
2. Exploring the Ross Creek Cedar Grove
At a Glance:
- Location: Bull Lake Road and Highway 56, Troy, MT 59935
- Website: Tripadvisor.com
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall, especially June through October
- Cost: Free
- Reservations: Not required
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Ross Creek Cedar Grove feels like a cool secret tucked into northwest Montana. Instead of dry slopes and open pine woods, visitors step into damp shade, soft moss, and giant western red cedars that seem older than memory.
The scenic area covers about 100 acres, with an easy one-mile interpretive loop that works well for families, casual walkers, and anyone who wants nature without a hard climb. Many trees are hundreds of years old, and some grow up to 12 feet across, which feels almost unreal when you stand beside them.
The trail includes signs that explain the plants, wildlife, water, and forest life in simple language. Kids often love peeking into hollow trunks, while adults usually slow down and speak a little quieter. Pair this stop with Bull Lake or Bad Medicine Campground for a peaceful half-day outside Troy. A light jacket helps on cooler shaded afternoons.
3. Playing the Timberbeast Golf Course
At a Glance:
- Location: Callahan Creek Park, Highway 2, Troy, MT 59935
- Website: Pdga.com
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall, mainly May through October
- Cost: Free
- Reservations: Not required
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Timberbeast Golf Course brings a fun local twist to outdoor recreation in Troy. Golf, a Montana term for disc golf, is easy to learn and even easier to enjoy when the setting includes trees, creek edges, and mountain air.
Located inside Callahan Creek Park, this 18 hole course gives players a mix of wooded fairways, small elevation changes, and natural hazards that keep every throw interesting.
Beginners can play without pressure, while experienced players get enough challenge to stay focused. Since the course sits near the Troy Museum and Visitors’ Center, it is simple to play a round and then spend time learning about the town’s past.
Best of all, it is free, which makes it a smart choice for families and road trippers watching their budget. Bring a few discs, wear comfortable shoes, and expect a few branches to steal your best shots along the way.
4. Relaxing at Roosevelt City Park
At a Glance:
- Location: 221 Roosevelt Parkway, Troy, MT 59935
- Website: Rooseveltcity.gov
- Best Time to Visit: Year round, with summer best for river activities
- Cost: Free admission
- Reservations: Not required, though yurt rental needs booking
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Roosevelt City Park is Troy’s favorite place to slow down by the Kootenai River. Set along the western bank, the park gives visitors room to walk, picnic, fish, launch a boat, or let kids burn off energy after a drive on Highway 2.
Families will find a paved walking path, children’s fishing pond, skate park, sports fields, playground areas, and open grass for simple afternoon fun.
In summer, the park becomes one of the town’s main gathering spots, especially during the Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration, when food vendors, music, fireworks, and neighbors fill the area with small town energy.
Travelers can also look into the riverside yurt rental for a simple overnight stay close to the water. Roosevelt City Park works because it is not fancy. It is useful, scenic, relaxed, and easy to enjoy at your own pace during almost any Troy visit.