The best walks and hikes around Columbia Falls

The trailhead is a packed gravel roundabout just off of Berne Road. You gain around 4300 feet as you ascend to the summit — the first four miles are a gradual climb through the woods, and the last two are steady switchbacks up to the views that open up at the peak.

Downtown Whitefish, offers a charming and historic western town experience. You'll find a variety of local shops, restaurants, and cozy bars to enjoy.

Columbia Mountain is a nice summit that overlooks the Flathead River and the huge Hungry Horse Reservoir. There is quite a lot of tree cover on the way up (which is amazing in the fall), but luckily the trees thin out as you approach the top.

This footpath follows the Whitefish River up to its end point. The Whitefish River is 24 miles long and flows from Whitefish Lake through the town of Whitefish. This lake is popular for fishing, and there are some recreation trails on its banks.

Whitefish Lake is seven miles in length, and the water is glacial water. Whitefish City Beach is near the lake's outflow and a very popular access point to the lake, being near the town. There is a sandy beach, a grassy area with shade, a designated swimming area, gazebos, picnic tables, and a boat dock with a fee to launch. In the summer, you can find kayak rentals, paddle board rentals, and refreshment stands.