Explore the great outdoors around Thompson Falls

As the winter tightens its grip on Montana, most of us head for the warmth of our homes and fireplaces. It’s the hardy souls that we see strapping on their snowshoes and warm winter jackets. Winter in Montana gives us all many opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

And that is the case with the residents of Thompson Falls who have miles of nature trails to enjoy.

I recently had the chance to walk those trails on a cold snowy morning and experience the history of the area. Just a couple of blocks south, off of Highway 200 in Thompson Falls, you will find the Gallatin Street bridge that connects you to a small park called Island Park.

Once on Island Park, a short walk will take you to the Thompson Falls dam, built between 1910 and close to completion by 1912.

Another option will take you to the historic High Bridge. The bridge was built around 1911 and was the main transportation across the Clark Fork river until 1928. It was in continual use until closed to vehicle traffic in early 1970s.

New life was given to the High Bridge when the city of Thompson Falls, Sanders County and many individuals renovated it and reopened it for use for pedestrians in 2010. The High Bridge is the longest standing bridge of its kind in Montana and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

As you walk along these historic trails and experience the sounds of the wind gently blowing through the trees, stop and listen for the occasional bald eagle flying overhead. Look for the geese and swans that frequently roam the area and as evening falls, listen for the hoot of the Great Horned owl.