Bike Trail Montana There is a better way to take in the clean Montana air and experience the excitement of a ten-year-old than to bike around the Southwest Montana villages and scenery. We have activities for all skill levels, whether you want to ride quietly through century-old towns, road bike through our expansive river valleys, or fly down the single track through breathtaking alpine woods. The bike-friendly neighborhoods are ideal for everything from solo exploration to family trips. You may really get a sense of Southwest Montana while making memories that won’t fade by slowly traveling through our historic villages. And after an exhilarating ride, there’s a high chance you’ll discover an antique bakery or ice cream parlor waiting for you.
Montana Trails
There is a lot of space to roam in Bike Trail Montana. Considering the roughly 30 million acres of state and federal areas, taking the less-traveled route is definitely an option. Wide, wide expanses lead you past tranquil lakes and pastoral farmland, as well as rolling grasslands and picturesque mountain ranges that are either nearby or around you. Additionally, the trails within towns offer users the chance to explore the subtleties of neighborhoods and natural areas within these more populated but rarely congested locations, such as the former Milwaukee Road in Missoula, which is now a component of the Riverfront Trail. Here are a few of our current favorite trail systems in the state, which is always being improved.
System Of Headwaters Trails
The 11.8-mile Headwaters Trail System connects the Three Forks to the historically significant and breathtakingly gorgeous Missouri Headwaters State Park, both of which are situated in southwestern Montana. The City of Three Forks, where the Jefferson, Gallatin, and Madison rivers meet to form the 2,341-mile-long Missouri River, is traversed by the asphalt route that uses the historic railbed of the Milwaukee Railroad. The Lewis and Clark Expedition camped in this region as well during their epic voyage in July 1806 while they mapped the Missouri River.
The route finally enters the state park and parallels the Jefferson River with views of the Tobacco Root Mountains to the southeast. Along the way, it goes through meadows, ponds, and mature cottonwood stands that are home to a variety of birds and other wildlife. As part of the 3,700-mile Great American Rail Track connecting Washington, D.C., and Washington State, plans are being made to expand the trail to the Gallatin Valley.
The Trail From Bridger Mountains To Bozeman
The 2.1-mile Bozeman to Bridger Mountains Trail, which is also a component of the Great American Rail Trail and the local Main Street to the Mountains vision, connects the well-liked College M parking area to the Story Mill Community Park in the existing pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly Gallatin Valley. The 40-acre park has a wildlife preserve alongside the East Gallatin River, complete with a bird blind, as well as fishing ponds, a labyrinth garden, teaching gardens, and lots of climbing and playing areas for kids. The brief trip is an uphill ascent from West to east over the smooth, new pavement. It passes through a neighborhood of residences at one point and crosses MT 86 at around halfway, but it also affords stunning vistas of the Gallatin Mountains.
Trail Of Old Yellowstone
The historic Milwaukee Road, which ran from the Pacific to the Midwestern states from 1908 until the middle of the 1980s, is a scenic route that is lined with crushed stone and mud. The 7.5-mile Old Yellowstone Trail begins south of Garrison with vistas of the Flint Creek Range and traverses three restored bridges over the Clark Fork River. The area is a haven for animals, including elk, deer, and moose. It’s a wonderful opportunity for walkers, runners, and cyclists to stretch their legs while taking in the landscape, with amenities like benches and picnic tables along the route and vault toilets at the finish points. Phase two is expected to be finished in 2021 and will add 4 miles to the path in order to connect it to the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, a historic working ranch, and the city of Deer Lodge.
Waterfront Path
The 3.5-mile River Front Trail, another stretch of Milwaukee Road, travels through Missoula’s downtown. The Clark Fork River’s north and south shores both include very level sections of the partially paved and packed gravel road. The Carousel for Missoula is located at Caras Park, which is also home to Dragon Hollow, a well-liked children’s park and a place for one of Missoula’s Farmers’ Markets, close to the Higgins Street Bridge. The Clark Fork Natural Area, a home for birds and other wildlife, is an oasis in the center of town when you go over the Orange Street Bridge to the south shore. McCormick Park, which is situated along this route as well, features a fishing pond for kids and recreational activities. Pick up the 1.8-mile Milwaukee Trail only a few miles west of McCormick Park, or join the 4.2-mile Kim Williams Nature Trail near the trail’s eastern terminus.
Blighty Trail
The paved Bitterroot Trail climbs only 400 feet over 51 miles from downtown Missoula to Angler’s Roost south of Hamilton, making it the perfect route for non-motorized users. This picturesque route follows MT 93 via the small villages of Lolo, Florence, Stevensville, and Victor as it passes through the Bitterroot Valley south of Missoula, running between the Sapphire Mountains to the east and the Bitterroot Mountains to the West. The Lewis and Clark Expedition camped at Travelers’ Rest State Park in Lolo in 1805 and 1806, and it is a popular destination for history aficionados. The 1841-founded St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville is a lovely spot for a picnic and is known as the place where Montana began. The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, a birder’s paradise, is a short detour and is only 2.5 miles from Stevensville. Hamilton, the largest town in the region outside of Missoula, has a wide variety of restaurants and bars where you may get a satisfying meal or a refreshing beverage. It’s also a great chance to check out the Daly Mansion, which was Marcus Daly’s residence when he was one of Montana’s illustrious—or rather, infamous Copper Kings.
Historical Great Northern Trail
The Great Northern Historic Trail, a tribute to the Great Northern Railway in Northwestern Bike Trail Montana, is a 22-mile paved journey through a generally rural, breathtaking array of backdrops, including forests, agricultural fields, and historical landmarks. Along the journey, the Swan, Mission, Salish, and Whitefish Mountain ranges’ gleaming peaks offer a constantly shifting landscape. From Kila, the path travels alongside U.S. Highway 2 towards Kalispell before arriving in the small community of Somers on the shore of Flathead Lake. Along the way, the trail passes the Smith Lake Waterfowl Production Area and crosses Ashley Creek. Freshly harvested Flathead cherries sold at roadside stands in Somers throughout the months of July and August are the ideal trail food. The trail is well-liked by fans of snowshoeing and Nordic skiing in the winter, especially closer to Kila.
Bike Trail Montana Top Mountain Biking Routes
The state is extremely passionate about its trail system and works hard to ensure that mountain biking is accessible to both residents and visitors. According to my personal observations, the trails are well-kept, often used, and generously shared. With numerous local racing series, local pros, a high school league, and individuals eager to teach you the ropes at every turn, the mountain biking scene in Montana is growing. The trails in Montana have always caused me to take a moment to consider how amazing our surroundings are and how vast and limitless the options that are waiting around every bend are.
- Warm Springs Trail Systems: Some MTB Experience Is Needed
The 47 kilometers of trails in the Warm Springs Trail System are best suited to testing intermediate, advanced, and expert riders. In this part of the state, novice riders might be a little out of their depth, but they should use these incredible trails as motivation to get better and refine their abilities. The singletrack challenges on the trails are renowned for being rewarded with stunning views.
Divide: The Divide track is a 32-mile wilderness route that climbs and descends 8,000 feet. Although it descends into the State Line-Divide trail network, this path can also be accessible via the Warm Springs Trail System. Rarely is the full trail traversed in a single try. The majority of people will walk an out-and-back route or different loops that diverge from the main trail.
Warm Springs Creek: This five-mile route is one of the area’s relatively few blue ones. It would be a fantastic option for someone who is reluctant to put their grit to the test. One of the parking lots is where the route begins. The majority of the path is singletrack, with some rough patches and, as the name of the trail would imply, a few creek crossings. - The Fast and Flowy MTB Trail System at The Rattlesnake
The most well-liked trail network in Missoula is the Rattlesnake system. The majority of the trails are fast, flowing, and smooth, yet they can still accommodate trail users of all skill levels seeking to have a good time. There are 75 distinct trails to choose from, totaling around 50 miles. With a few black trails to test the brave riders, the rest of the routes are blue and green. A brief fence line The Rattlesnake trail system has a simpler route called Short Fence Line. It is a 5-mile loop with a 1000-foot elevation rise, vistas of mountains and meadows, and easy, flowing paths. The route is well located for a quick ride after work and is near the town. A trio of larches Although Three Larches is more difficult, it’s still a fantastic trip for intermediate riders. One of the reasons it is regarded as one of the best trails at the Rattlesnake Trail System is that it is fast and flowy at the top and gets more technical with some drops as you get closer to the bottom. The track is only approximately 2 miles long and descends 800 vertical feet. - The downhill MTB Playground at Big Sky Resort
The only mountain biking park in the vicinity with lift access is at the Big Sky Resort. They provide three distinct lifts that supply more than 40 kilometers of downhill bike routes. Beginners can start on the Explorer lift; intermediate riders can board the Thunder Wolf, and advanced and expert riders can use the Swift Current lift to access the most difficult trails. The resort also provides coaching for downhill skiing and kids’ programs. Soul Gap: This 1.4-mile, the black-diamond path descends 1,200 feet and has 1,200 feet of climbing. The trail has sections that are steep and flowy, as well as berms, drops, jumps, and rock gardens. Although the trail is very difficult, none of the elements are necessary and can be skipped if you are unsure. - Miles of Mountain Bike Trails in the South Hills
About 80 miles of trails make up the 179 individual trails in the South Hills trail system. The vast network of trails offers pre-designed routes that range in length from 4 to 40 miles, or you can create your own route that is as short or as long as your legs will allow. The trails are made to accommodate all levels of riders in the area, from beginners to elite athletes.
This system’s trailheads are dispersed across the downtown and nearby neighborhoods and are quite accessible. This system is dispersed over four distinct ridges, which are divided by gulches.
The following trails are meant to offer you a little sample of what is available because there are so many that it is impossible to fully highlight only three in this area.
The most difficult track in this system is called Dump Out Trail. The bedrock is mostly limestone. This path has a lot of rock, which not only makes it difficult for riders but also allows riders to ride it early in the mountain bike season because it quickly drains snow.
Eagle Scout Trail: With its many switchbacks, the Eagle Scout Trail is rideable in both directions and offers a more leisurely ascent. A beginner may easily negotiate the green trail, but an expert will also enjoy it at fast speeds.
Entertainment Trail: The majority of riders travel downhill on the Entertainment Trail. The trail is straight, quick, and steep. An otherwise straight run of a route has a few off-camber curves that can take you off guard.
Pro Tip: Since there are so many different route alternatives in this area, it is best to arrive at the trail network prepared. That way, you will receive the most value for your money and save time by not having to wait at trail intersections to decide what to ride.
5.) Bangtail Divide
In Bozeman, Montana, there is an IMBA Epic Trail called the Bangtail Divide. If you have more than one person and car, you can shuttle along it as an out-and-back trail. One of Bozeman’s most well-known rides, it is best taken from south to north. Over 4000 feet of ascent are covered in about 20 miles of riding. The spectacular views and enjoyable paths are terrific rewards for the effort.
Western Bike Trail Montana To Explore
We’re pretty excellent at revealing our own secrets, as you may have already deduced. That’s because we have so much useful information about Glacier getaways to impart. For instance, April is among the greatest seasons for biking through Big Sky Country. Winter sports fans leave Western Montana as the weather warms, making spring one of our most peaceful and tranquil seasons. Experience the wildflowers, newly hatched fauna, raging rivers, and the always-welcome shoulder-season discounts (which pair well with our warm western hospitality).
- Visiting the Sun Road
Road, Intermediate to Advanced Cycling Distance: Variable
The only time you can ride one of the most picturesque highways in America before it opens to automotive traffic is during this peaceful season of spring in Glacier National Park, which makes biking this beauty a fairly spectacular way to observe the season blossom. Additionally, all park roads and the three park trails are open to bicycling. Is anyone up for a detour? The spring weekend shuttle service starts on May 13. Visit the National Park Service for further details. For bike rentals, narrated bike tours, and unique personalized Glacier National Park trips, get in touch with our colleagues at Glacier Guides. This Glacier Getaway will go down in history. - Beginner-level road bike trail at Whitefish Cycling Distance: Variable
Whitefish, a classic alpine village, is a haven for meandering pathways. One particular section of the town’s paved Whitefish Bike and Pedestrian Trail, which is located close to Riverside Park, follows the Whitefish River. Whitefish is a year-round vacation town, so the spring thaw presents an opportunity to discover it alone. Make it an overnight excursion with Whitefish Bike Retreat, which is just west of the town and offers trail-side housing and a truly genuine Montana experience. - Lake Koocanusa Loop
Road biking, intermediate to advanced, 80 miles.
A good loop is loved by everyone. One of Montana’s best road rides is made even better by the addition of a lake. As you go around Lake Koocanusa between Eureka and Libby, you’ll see beauty at every turn. On this jewel, you won’t find many level areas, so prepare for some hills. You won’t be let down if you put in the time and effort on this lake loop. Oh, and Eureka and Libby both have breweries, so whatever town you end up in, you can reward yourself with a handcrafted big-sky brew after a strenuous ride. - The Ron MacDonald Riverfront Trail Network
Intermediate Road Biking
Distance: 7 miles
Bike about Missoula, one of Western Montana’s cultural hubs, in the springtime. Before joining the Kim Williams Nature Trail, follow the Clark Fork River as it winds through the city. When the route ends, head out onto the streets of this bike-friendly university town and see everything it has to offer, including one of the West’s top 10 farmers markets, which opens every May. - Bitterroot Trail Road Level: Novice Cycling Distance: 50 kilometers
Between the sharp peaks of the Bitterroot Mountains and the undulating Sapphire Range, the Bitterroot River winds while you take in the sights. A novel and enjoyable way to discover this breathtaking valley are by biking the Bitterroot from Missoula to Hamilton along the paved Bitterroot Trail. In The Root, you’ll go through a number of quaint settlements and stop at places like side trails, fishing holes, and unique stores, coffee shops, breweries, and bakeries.
Pedaling Through Central Bike Trail Montana
Take to the road and enjoy our breathtaking vistas and wide open areas, or explore Central Montana’s urban community trails and mountain biking routes. While some routes may lead you alongside rivers and streams, others will provide you with unmatched views of the region that people in Central Montana call home. Mountain bikers can ride through areas where gold prospectors once rode, or they can just take in the peace and quiet of the forest. Regardless of the path you take, we hope you take some time to explore the neighborhood and stop by nearby shops. Enjoy the journey.
Bicycling
In Great Falls, Montana, grab life by the handlebars! Shift gears and point your handlebars to Great Falls to enjoy some of the best cyclings in the West if you’re a cyclist who hasn’t yet explored the variety of trails and cycling possibilities offered in Montana’s Basecamp for Art & Adventure. Great Falls is a great place to go biking. Whether you want to take it easy along the Boulevard District or go hard-core along steep hills, there are plenty of opportunities to change gears.
Streamside Trail
The 53 kilometers of the River’s Edge Trail are ideal for biking, skating, hiking, running, and strolling. The pathways connect to Great Falls’ historic downtown, parks, eateries, and attractions while offering breathtaking views of the mountains, prairies, river canyons, waterfalls, and reservoirs. Highlights of the trail include 24 works of public art, expansive vistas of Great Falls from the gazebo in Warden Park, and Singletrack trails constructed to IMBA standards. There are 18 parking spots where you can access the path, and there are tables, garbage cans, and restrooms scattered throughout the route.
State Park at Giant Springs
Throughout the year, Giant Springs State Park offers a range of cycling activities. The River’s Edge Trail winds its way through Giant Springs State Park. Enjoy the 2.1-mile Giant Springs Loop, which starts at Giant Springs State Park and passes the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center. To witness Black Eagle Falls’ magnificent magnificence, keep traveling west along the route. If you’re feeling very daring, you may keep going west on the route to reach the 3.5-mile Urban loop, which will take you through Gibson Park, into the heart of the city, and over two pedestrian-safe bridges.
Past the Dam
The Beyond the Dam bike ride has three routes along the Missouri River, each with a different duration, and starts at Black Eagle Park. One ride gives passengers a chance to cross Missouri at the normally off-limits Cochrane and Rainbow Dams. Enjoy live music, entertainment, food, and giveaways after the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Montana’s Road Biking Trails
What Montana national parks provide road bike trails?
hikers suggest numerous well-known national parks in Montana. 2 road riding paths in Glacier National Park have had an average rating of 4.5 stars from 550 user ratings.
What road-riding route is the longest in Montana?
Silver Bow Creek Greenway is Montana’s longest road bike trail, according to AllTrails.com. The estimated length of this trail is 28.0 km, and the average hiking time is 5 hours and 28 minutes.
Which road bike route in Montana gains the highest elevation?
Montana: Of all the road-riding routes in the region, Beartooth Highway: Silver Gate to Red Lodge has the highest height rise at 1,822 m. Going-to-the-Sun Road: West Glacier to Saint Mary has the next-highest elevation gain of 1,350 m for road riding trails.
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