Kootenai-Tobacco Valley Map (Click for Larger Image)

Kootenai Valley isn't a park. But with all the scenery, mountains, forests and watchable wildlife, it certainly could be. This is Montana the way it was hundreds of years ago: untouched. And even in this wild section of Northwest Montana, you can still find the civilization you want in interesting frontier towns such as Libby, Troy and Eureka.

Begin in Libby on Scenic Byway 37. Just 13.5 miles out of town, turn on Forest Service Road 28 to Powerhouse Road. This brings you to the Alexander Creek Picnic Area, where you'll see bald eagles, nesting osprey and other waterfowl. Continue north on 37, following the shore of Lake Koocanusa, until you reach Highway 93. Here, you can test the waters at Ten Lakes Scenic Area, or visit Eureka.

Horseshoe Lake - Near Libby (Click for Larger Image)

Return down Hwy. 37 for about 10 miles and take the bridge across Lake Koocanusa on Highway 508. You'll parallel the Yaak River first, and then the Kootenai River as you turn south (both rivers are perfect for fishing). Eventually, 508 meets Highway 2, where you'll turn toward Troy. A few miles past Troy is Kootenai Falls (also known as "The Gauntlet" in the movie The River Wild). They offer a relaxing break any time. Finally, backtrack a few miles and turn south on Highway 56. Just past Bull Lake, travel three miles down Forest Service Road 398 (it's paved), and you'll find the Giant Cedars-Ross Creek Scenic Area. This old-growth forest has stands of cedar that are amazing for two reasons: they're more than 500 years old, and up to 250 feet tall. A mile-long handicap-accessible trail will take you through the grove in wide-eyed wonder.