Columbia Falls, Montana is located in Gilliam County in northwestern Montana, approximately 7 miles west of the town of Hungry Horse and 22 miles southeast of Whitefish. Columbia Falls is considered to be part of the greater Flathead Valley area on the edge of Glacier National Park and home to numerous attractions perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
The town itself was formed around 1890 when it was chosen as a railroad divisional point, earning its name after being named after nearby Mt. Columbia. Despite its rustic surroundings, the city has embraced its own charm, featuring art galleries, well-known festivals such as the International Food Festival that highlights the local culture, and a charming downtown area full of shops, restaurants and lodging options. Plus you can experience wildlife right in town with scenic wildlife parks close by such as Wild Horse Island State Park in Flathead Lake just a short drive away.
But probably one of Columbia Falls’ most precious gems is located within minutes from town – Glacier National Park! What sets this particular park apart from other U.S. national parks are its renowned Going-to-the Sun Road which takes you through alpine meadows full of colorful wildflowers to mountain peaks that offer some amazing views and remarkable glimpses into the wilderness. Throughout your journey you will also get to observe diverse wildlife from mountain goats to black bears that make this park an ultimate natural attraction for all visitors looking for an unparalleled outdoor experience!
The stunning beauty that surrounds Columbia Falls can make your visit unforgettable! Whether you’re visiting for a weekend stroll or going on a week-long journey to explore all what this state has to offer – you'll be glad you stopped by Columbia Falls Montana!
What is the zip code for Columbia Falls, Montana?
Columbia Falls, Montana, is a stunningly beautiful mountain town located in the northwest corner of the state. It is situated in the shadows of majestic Glacier National Park and nestles among rolling hills and rivers at the base of Whitefish Mountain. The zip code for Columbia Falls, Montana is 59912.
This little mountain town offers more than its stunning views; it also provides an abundance of activities ranging from skiing to white water rafting and hiking to fishing and hunting. For those looking for some excitement away from nature, there are plenty of attractions in downtown Columbia Falls, such as shopping complexes, art galleries, eateries and movie theaters.
Columbia Falls has something to offer everyone - whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway or a burst of adventure. Take time out from a busy life elsewhere to relax here in this natural setting surrounded by numerous recreational opportunities! Visitors don't have to worry about missing that package delivery either; with its zip code 59912, Columbia Falls is easily accessible for any mail or parcel needs visitors may have.
What is the population of Columbia Falls, Montana?
Columbia Falls, Montana, is a small city located in the picturesque Northwest corner of the state. Part of the greater Flathead Valley area, Columbia Falls is home to a population of over 4,357 according to the 2020 US Census.
Once a thriving resource-based economy based on forestry, agriculture and mining, Columbia Falls has since shifted its focus towards tourism due to its spectacular mountain vistas, hiking trails and ski slopes in the vicinity. In recent years many boutique shops and restaurants have opened up around town, showcasing the best that Montana living has to offer.
Beyond its breathtaking beauty lies a population of hard working people who take pride in their culture and actively support their local businesses enjoying classic Montana events like Freedom Fest and free summer concerts in beautiful Haley Park. From fishermen alike cheerily casting lines into Hungry Horse Reservoir to outdoor enthusiasts tackling difficult trails with views that go on forever; Columbia Falls is a place full of life and rich cultural diversity.
What counties is Columbia Falls, Montana located in?
Columbia Falls, Montana is a small town located in the northwestern part of the state, which lies within an area often referred to as Glacier Country. It is nestled on the western edge of Flathead County and along the eastern side of Lincoln County.
The city of Columbia Falls has become an intriguing oasis in this region, attracting many visitors and locals alike. Visitors to Columbia Falls can peruse Flathead River while they are here, although they will also find plenty of opportunities to enjoy recreational activities and take in stunning views. Columbia Falls is conveniently located within walking distance to a variety of attractions such as golf courses, ski resorts, whitewater rafting tours, hiking trails, and pristine mountain lakes for those who seek adventure. The city also boasts a unique shopping district with locally-owned boutiques, restaurants and art galleries that really provide a sense of local culture.
Colombia Falls offers both its local citizens and visitors alike an abundance of diverse experiences including cultural events carried out by the community and stunning landscapes offered by nearby National Parks including Glacier National Park - all this tucked into a wonderful corner surrounded by Lincoln County and Flathead counties!
How far is Columbia Falls, Montana from Kalispell, Montana?
Columbia Falls, Montana and Kalispell, Montana are close together, yet just far enough apart to make for a great day excursion between the two cities. Located only eight miles from each other, it would take approximately 15 minutes to drive between the two beautiful locations.
Columbia Falls, commonly referred to as “The Gateway to Glacier" is one of the closest access points to Glacier National Park. It offers visitors plenty of activities, ranging from outdoor recreation such as biking and hiking, spending time near Flathead River or Whitefish Lake during summer months. Art galleries and shops line the downtown area and offer a glimpse into the city’s culture and history. Because of Columbia Fall’s excellent location, day trips or overnight stays are popular options for anyone looking for an adventure or some nature exploration in beautiful Montana.
Kalispell is only about 25 miles away from the impressive Glacier National Park which makes it popular for tourists. In Kalispell you will find historical architecture combined with modern amenities such as shopping malls and premiere restaurants alike. If that's not enough there's also the famous Woodland Water Park, where visitors can spend their days picnicking or playing on slides and pools of water located in an aesthetic park with picturesque mountainous views as a backdrop - making an excellent excursion even more special!
Overall Columbia Falls and Kalispell make great day trips since they're close enough that you won't have to spend your entire day commuting - yet just far enough apart that you get all the beauty Montana has on offer while traveling between them!
What is the average annual precipitation in Columbia Falls, Montana?
Columbia Falls, Montana is an idyllic small mountain town nestled between the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. Its location can be credited for its unique landscape and high levels of annual precipitation – averaging 28.5 inches per year! This makes Columbia Falls well-positioned among other mountainous areas, with higher average annual precipitation than nearby cities such as Whitefish or Kalispell at 24.5 and 20 inches per year respectively.
The area's atmospheric conditions are conducive to a high level of precipitation. Columbia Falls is tucked in a protected mountain valley that often catches ongoing storms, keeping them from dissipating into the plains below. During the winter months, atypical snowfall drives up the area's annual precipitation significantly! The oft reported 230+ inches of snow Columbia Falls receives each year supports this claim – an amount which is significantly higher than similar areas around Montana and the western US more broadly.
Though they potentially experience high winds frequently post-snowfall, Columbia Fall locals avow that it's worth a few gusts to enjoy their monster-sized snowfalls! As a result of extensive amounts of snowfall each winter, residents who partake in outdoor activities here enjoy some of the best skiing, snowmobiling and outdoor adventure opportunities around. It’s no surprise then why so many Montanans flock to Columbia Falls every year to get their fill of copious amounts of precipitation!
What are the major highways near Columbia Falls, Montana?
Columbia Falls, Montana is located in the northwest corner of the state and is close to some of the most notable highways in the region. Interstate 90 runs from east to west through western Montana, connecting Missoula, Kalispell and beyond. Just west of Columbia Falls, US Highway 2 connects Columbia Falls to Glacier National Park and eventually goes all the way to Minnesota.
US Highway 93 runs along US Highway 2, directly north and south of Columbia Falls respectively. This allows users a direct route between Canada (British Columbia) and Montana. In addition, Highway 35 connects Whitefish to Columbia Falls – this 58 mile stretch passes by Flathead Lake, a popular tourist stop for those travelling through Montana.
For those wanting a scenic drive, hundreds of miles of backcountry roadways surround Columbia Falls with majestic views and challenging terrain for avid hikers or outdoor adventurers. The Flathead Valley Scenic Drive is one such route that winds South from Whitefish through Eureka then up past Woods Bay before it returns east along US Highway 2 ending at the foot of Glacier National Park's Apgar Mountains on the southeast side of Lake McDonald. Whether travelers are headed out on vacation or starting a new job in town, they have ample ways to get around Columbia Falls, Montana!
