Wide Open Opportunities

Located in the Kootenai National Forest between the Cabinet Mountains and the Purcell Mountains, the town of Libby lies in the heart of the Kootenai Valley along the Kootenai River. The original townsite of Libby was located several miles upstream from the confluence of Libby Creek and the Kootenai River, but was relocated to its present location in 1892 when the railroad built tracks along the Kootenai River, joining Idaho with Eastern Montana. Libby was named after the daughter of an early settler. Today, Libby offers pristine lakes, rivers, and mountain trails unencumbered by the crowds of people you would encounter anywhere else in the lower 48 states.

The Kootenai National Forest has 1,400 of miles of hiking trails, 40 developed campgrounds, and many miles of backcountry roads for visitors that follow huckleberry-laden hills and breathtaking views of the Cabinet peaks. In the winter, there are over 70 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and many more miles of ungroomed and off-trail riding for snowmobilers and cross country skiers.

The 90-mile-long Lake Koocanusa is a major attraction to boaters and lake fishermen. The roads on either side of the lake make a wonderful driving loop with beautiful views of both sides of the lake. Campgrounds and boat docks are located on both sides of the lake, accommodating both tent and RV campers. Bring your camera, because wildlife is often seen along these roads.

Downstream from Libby, the river enters a canyon and flows over Kootenai Falls, one of the largest free-flowing waterfalls in the northwest. Kootenai Falls was the setting for the movie The River Wild, filmed in 1993. The main falls are 30 feet high and can be accessed by a foot trail from the parking area next to the highway.

Winter enthusiasts will also find a perfect place to practice their powder turns at Turner Mountain Ski Area, which is a short 22 miles outside Libby. The all-volunteer run ski area sits at an elevation of 5,952 feet with 2,110 feet of vertical rise. The hill offers 20 runs, ranging from black diamond to beginner, but the majority of runs are rated black diamond.

Visit Libby and you will have the chance to see the mountains the way they used to be and still are here in Northwest Montana. Contact Clearwater Montana Properties today to get better introduced to this uniquely located town and the real estate possibilities available.