Kootenai Country Lays on the Charm
Communities: Olney, Stryker, Trego, Fortine, Eureka, Rexford, Libby, Troy, Yaak
There's plenty of outdoor adventure to be had in Kootenai Country and the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness, from multiple pristine lakes to backcountry camping, hiking and horseback riding in some of our most remote and wild country. Montana’s quiet and beautiful northwest corner is a treasure trove of breathtaking vistas, glistening waters, hidden gems and charming small towns.
Recreation opportunities include renting snowmobiles and ATVs from Action Rentals in Olney, climbing the Stillwater Canyon with Rock Climb Montana in Stryker, experiencing a sleigh ride or wagon ride with Cripple Creek Horse Ranch in Trego, and visiting the Stonehenge Air Museum in Fortine.
The Northwest Corridor is also home to the No. 1 rated golf course in Montana. The Wilderness Club in Eureka is a Nick Faldo signature course and, in addition to a world-class game of golf, offers luxury lodging and amenities. Eureka’s Tobacco Valley Historical Village offers a walk back in time through a collection of restored buildings, including a general store, schoolhouse, library, church, two log cabins, a hand-hewn house, railway depot, caboose, and fire tower.
The Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway follows along Lake Koocanusa —with quintessential river, lake and mountain views. On the shores of the lake near Rexford, rent an ATV and explore the Koocanusa Sand Dunes. The Libby Dam and Libby Dam Visitor Center can be accessed at the south end of the lake. It's easy to find local vibes and craft beer in Montana's quiet corner also; just head to Cabinet Mountain Brewing Co. in downtown Libby. In winter, ski Turner Mountain, one of Montana’s hidden gems.
Kootenai Falls and the famous Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge are another must-stop attraction near Troy. The falls serve as the largest undammed falls in the state and represent a rich heritage site for the Kootenai Tribe. The swinging bridge presents the perfect photo op and delivers anglers to the Kootenai River—for a guided fly-fishing adventure, enlist the experts at Linehan Outfitting Company. In the Yaak, find yourself in one of Montana's quietest and most remote spots.
Highlights: The Wilderness Club; Indian Springs Ranch; Ten Lakes Scenic Area; Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway; Lake Koocanusa; Libby Dam; Kootenai River; Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge; skiing; fishing; biking; golf; folf; snowmobiling; historic sites and museums; remote backcountry
Length: 165 miles
Travel time: 3 1/2 hours
