This Riverside City In Montana Is An Underrated, Scenic Gateway To Glacier National Park

Situated along the stunning Flathead River, Columbia Falls is one of the most underrated small towns in Montana. Is the perfect place to choose as a base for exploring the nearby Glacier National Park, a beauty spot considered to be one of the top must-visit spots in Montana, located just a 20 minute drive away. Columbia Falls is a truly peaceful retreat near some of the state's most breathtaking landscapes, and boasts a laid-back charm, thriving community, and breathtaking mountain views. For many visitors, it's the perfect spot for those who love spending time in the great outdoors.

It's fairly easily accessible, with regular flights from a selection of different airlines flying into the nearby Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, located just a 15 minute drive away. From here, most visitors typically rent a car to reach town, as there is not much public transport in the area. The drive in is both short and scenic, with views of the nearby mountains and gorgeous open fields.

While most visitors typically use Columbia Falls as a convenient gateway to Glacier National Park, the town itself offers plenty of activities worth exploring. A must-see attraction is the Columbia Falls Community Market. Held on Thursday evenings between May and September, you'll find local foods, handmade art, live music, and an all-round great atmosphere. If you're looking to enjoy some of Montana's authentic culture during your visit, then be sure not to miss out by mixing with the locals here.

For adventure seekers, Columbia Falls is also home to Montana's largest waterpark, known as Big Sky Waterpark, this is one of the best amusement parks in the state! Here you can find a range of fun waterslides, bumper cars, mini-golf, and much more, and is the perfect destination for a day of family fun. It's a great destination during the summer time, and is open 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. every day except Mondays, with admission starting at $34.99 for children and $44.99 for adults for a full day pass. Another place to stop by with the family is the nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort, located just a 30-minute drive away. During the winter time, you can enjoy skiing on the gorgeous slopes and taking lessons, and in summer, there's a range of mountain biking, ziplining and scenic gondola rides to enjoy.

Flathead Lake is another great attraction near Columbia Falls. Located just a 35-minute drive away, it's the perfect spot outside of Glacier National Park to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and is a must-visit for those traveling here during the summer season. This natural freshwater lake is the largest in the western U.S. and one of the world's cleanest, so be sure to swim in the warm waters, head out on a boat or kayak, or simply soak up the atmosphere.

When planning your trip to Columbia Falls, you'll be pleased to find out that there are plenty of great lodging options in the area. From rustic cabins to upscale stays, this little town has it all. Glacier Basecamp Lodge is a great choice for those looking for a convenient and comfortable stay en-route to Glacier National Park. If you're looking for something a little more upscale though, a stay at the Meadow Lake Resort will provide you with a spacious and luxurious stay with plenty of on-site attractions, including a spa, golfing, skiing, and dining. If you plan on traveling with an RV, there's a selection of nearby campgrounds, such as Columbia Falls RV Park and Cabins, where you can find full hookups, for those looking for a scenic way to stay close to town.

The best time to plan your trip to Columbia Falls is typically between late June through early September, when temperatures fall between 43 and 83 degrees Fahrenheit. At this time of year, Glacier's popular Going-to-the-Sun Road is usually fully open. There are also community markets in full swing, and plenty of great weather for you to enjoy the many opportunities for recreation in the great outdoors. If you're looking for a getaway where you can enjoy snowsports, though, then the town is still a popular choice during the winter season.