Explore the Forest!

Kootenai Falls is one of the largest free flowing waterfalls in the northwest. The calm river suddenly gathers momentum surging first through China Rapids and then over the falls, dropping 90 feet in less than a mile. The main falls is 30 feet high and can be viewed from a “swinging bridge” that crosses the river.

Ross Creek has been known for many years for the giant Western Red Cedars which grow along its banks. Enjoy the cedar grove by taking the .9 mile self-guided nature trail which forms a winding loop through this old-growth forest environment. While you are visiting the Cedar Grove you may want to picnic at the scenic streamside picnic grounds near the parking area

With the Canadian border on the north side, the Ten Lakes Area is dominated by a high ridge of the Whitefish Mountains. Alpine glaciers carved deep scallops, or cirques, and high, rim-rocked basins which shelter numerous small lakes.

Stone Hill has all the qualities of a premier sport climbing area. Climbers are attracted to this hidden area in the northwestern corner of the state because of the steep quartzite cliffs. The views of an open ponderosa pine forest and Lake Koocanusa make this undeveloped area stand out from the rest.

Located within the heart of the Kootenai National Forest, the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness contains over 93,000 acres of beautiful, rugged, glacier-carved mountains.

This stretch of State Highway 37 parallels Lake Koocanusa for 67 miles. The view of the lake is fantastic and there are numerous camping, picnicking, and boat access points located along the byway. Two marinas are also on the byway.