Kootenai Falls, Natural waterfall in Lincoln County, Montana, United States.

Kootenai Falls is a large waterfall system on the Kootenai River in Montana that spans a broad width and consists of multiple water tiers. The water descends the river with significant force, creating a dramatic water display across the landscape.

Canadian explorer David Thompson traveled the Kootenai region in the early 1800s, following trails established by Native Americans around this area. His journeys helped document the landscape and river routes of the region.

The Kutenai Tribe considers the falls the centre of the world, a place for prayer, ceremonies, vision quests and offerings since before European colonization. In June 1987, authorities refused seven local power companies permission to build a dam and hydroelectric plant here, preserving the site.

The falls are reached by a foot trail from a parking area beside U.S. Route 2. The path crosses wooded terrain with uneven ground, so sturdy footwear helps. The Swinging Bridge downstream is open to the public and gives elevated views of the falls. Whitewater kayakers often portage their boats around the falls.

The Swinging Bridge, first built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s for Forest Service firefighter access, was destroyed by a flood in 1948 and rebuilt on concrete piers. Its 2019 replacement cost between $500,000 and $600,000 and was finished two months ahead of schedule. The bridge appears in The River Wild (1994).