Located a short distance from Glacier National Park, Columbia Falls, Montana, offers plenty of outdoor activity as well as a vibrant cultural experience boosted by its appeal to tourists looking to explore Big Sky Country.
There is no shortage of options for things to do in Columbia Falls, and here you will find a list to help you make the most out of your visit.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Columbia Falls, MT
- Montana Vortex and House of Mystery
- Big Sky Waterpark
- Bad Rock Canyon
- Depot Park
- Shepard Memorial Fountain
- Heritage Days Festival & Rodeo
- Cabin Fever Days & World-Famous Barstool Ski Races
- Columbia Falls Community Market
- Gateway to Glacier
- Hungry Horse Dam & Reservoir
1. Montana Vortex and House of Mystery
Come for the optical illusions, stay for the mystery. A perfect activity for kids, the House of Mystery is a crooked shack in the center of a big Montana vortex where the rules of gravity appear to be suspended. Skeptical? You’ll have to visit it for yourself to see!
For $12, you can marvel at the physics behind some pretty squirrely trees, learn about the Golden Ratio, and take a few pics for the ‘gram. Hey, we think it’s a pretty fun and interactive experience!
2. Big Sky Waterpark
Ten exhilarating water slides, a whirlpool, mini-golf, an arcade, a rock climbing wall, bumper cars… What doesn’t Big Sky have!?
It’s officially Montana’s largest waterpark, and it shows! There are faster rides for the braver kids (and adults!), but also smaller spaces for younger kids – as well as free life jackets for toddlers and non-swimmers.
Our favorite part? Gas barbecues are available at the ready for the public, turning Big Sky Waterpark into a full-on party. Day passes, Value Passes, and Season Passes are all available for some good, clean fun.
3. Bad Rock Canyon
A little over 2.5 miles east of Columbia Falls is a beautiful canyon area, and it acts as an entrance to the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area.
With Flathead River running through it, Bad Rock Canyon has cool spring water, scenic views, and huge mountain lions.
We love the interpretive signs about past indigenous uses of the natural canyon waters, as well as the colorful ice falls in the wintertime.
Legend says that this area was once home to the Blackfeet War between Blackfeet Indians and newer settlers. We can understand why they’d want to defend this breathtaking space, and we’re glad it’s still available for public viewing.
4. Depot Park
There may only be one featured exhibit here, but it’s a beautiful example of a steam locomotive – and let’s be honest, we don’t get to see a lot of those these days.
Providing some early history of logging in the area, this spot is perfect for families looking to stretch their legs. (You can even climb onto the train and ring the bell – who doesn’t want to do that?!).
We’d recommend spending an hour or two in the area before hitting up the local favorite Three Forks Grille.
5. Shepard Memorial Fountain
Looking for a place to refill your water bottle after a trek through the gorgeous Glacier National Park?
This Columbia Falls fountain honors pastor Lion Don Shepard and features water that’s always flowing – hallelujah!
A lot of people say this is the best water that can be found nearby, but people also enjoy this Flathead River area off of Highway 2 E for its prolific rock climbing opportunities. Drink up!
6. Heritage Days Festival & Rodeo
Held annually during the last weekend of July, Heritage Days honors the unique logging and agricultural history of Columbia Falls, and features a suspenseful rodeo, auction, barn dance, parade, carnival, and more.
While Heritage Days began in 1956 as a way to bring prosperity to the area, it continues to this day as a celebration that can’t be missed for locals.
If you’re in town for the festivities, don’t forget to check out the car show and delicious huckleberry flavors.
7. Cabin Fever Days & World Famous Barstool Ski Races
We like to think that the 43+ year success of the Cabin Fever Days & Barstool Ski Races comes from the enthusiasm of locals and adventurous travelers alike. A whole weekend of fun, this annual mid-February celebration facilitates races for the entire family to watch or participate in.
We love the entertaining barstool races, arm wrestling, leg wrestling, dart tournaments – this event is just plain fun! It truly is the perfect cure for later wintertime cabin fever.
8. Columbia Falls Community Market
