The best cycling routes in Lolo National Forest
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462
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Long distance bike routes in Lolo National Forest traverse a landscape characterized by dense coniferous forests, river valleys, and rolling hills. The terrain often features gradual ascents and descents, with some areas offering more challenging climbs. This region is defined by its extensive network of forest roads and trails, providing varied surfaces for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes in Lolo National Forest
- The most popular touring cycling route is Kim Williams Trail and Riverfront Trail Loop, a 10.5 miles (17.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 44 minutes to complete. This easy route follows the Clark Fork River, offering views of the water and surrounding natural areas.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Ninemile Road, a moderate 14.8 miles (23.8 km) path. This route navigates through forested areas, providing a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces suitable for touring.
- Local touring cyclists also love the 1.5-Mile Tunnel – Route of the Hiawatha Trail loop from Taft, a 22.9 miles (36.8 km) trail leading through historic railway tunnels and trestles, often completed in about 3 hours 27 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Lolo National Forest is defined by extensive forest roads, river corridors, and varied elevation changes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy riverside paths to more challenging routes with significant climbs.
- The routes in Lolo National Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lolo National Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 5, 2026
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9
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17.0km
01:44
120m
120m
The Kim Williams Trail and Riverfront Trail Loop offers a delightful touring cycling experience along the Clark Fork River in Missoula. You'll find yourself pedaling through lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers, with Mount Sentinel providing a constant, majestic backdrop. The trail surface varies from paved sections near Downtown Missoula to compact gravel and dirt further east, providing a dynamic ride that's generally easy and suitable for all skill levels.
This 10.5-mile (17.0 km) loop, with a gentle 390 feet (119 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. It's easily accessible from downtown Missoula, with convenient parking options, making it a perfect choice for a quick escape or a leisurely afternoon ride. While open year-round, check local conditions, especially during winter months, for the best experience.
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23.8km
02:07
250m
250m
Ninemile Road offers a fantastic touring cycling experience on dirt surfaces, winding through rolling hills and dense forest sections. You'll encounter scenic shelf roads that occasionally open up to reveal views of the Blackfoot River, and there's a good chance to spot wildlife like deer, elk, and marmots. This moderate 14.8-mile (23.8 km) route, with 806 feet (246 metres) of elevation gain, provides a varied and engaging ride that takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes.
Planning your visit to Ninemile Road means preparing for unpaved conditions, which can include narrow sections and occasional "pot craters" or washed-out parts. All bridges along the route are wide enough for a single vehicle. This trail is best suited for experienced touring cyclists or those with mountain or gravel bikes, as beginners might find some segments challenging. Ensure you have the right gear for a ride that isn't completely flat but also avoids being overly strenuous.
What makes Ninemile Road stand out is its blend of natural beauty and varied terrain, making it a popular gravel biking destination. It's a great option if you're seeking a ride that balances effort with reward, offering river views and wildlife spotting opportunities. The route's combination of rolling hills and dirt surfaces provides a distinctive experience for those looking to explore the Frenchtown, Montana area on two wheels.
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5.0
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23
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31.2km
03:05
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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17.8km
02:05
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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riders
5.36km
00:30
0m
0m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Make sure you have a very bright headlamp and a jacket (or rain gear) it is completely dark, cold, wet, and muddy.
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Jacob's Island is a dog park on the banks of Clark Fork River. The park is 6-acres and the river works as a beautiful natural barrier for the dogs. It also offers a series of paved and unpaved trails, benches, picnic tables and dog-waste bags.
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Jacob's Island is a dog park on the banks of Clark Fork River. The park is 6 acres and the river works as a beautiful natural barrier for the dogs. It also offers a series of paved and unpaved trails, benches, picnic tables and dog-waste bags.
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Nestled in the northern Rockies, the city is known as the "Garden City" for its lush surroundings as well as trout fishing. The city is home to the University of Montana, founded in 1893.
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Ninemile Road is a popular gravel biking road in Frenchtown, Montana. The road is dirt with rolling hills pretty much the entire time and doesn't see a ton of vehicular traffic. This is a great place to go if you don't want a super long ride, but you don't want something completely flat, either.
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The Kim Williams Trail is a super popular trail in Missoula. It follows along the river the majority of the way, but it is often times tucked in the trees without a lot of views. The section of trail furthest west is a really smooth paved and dirt path. As you get further east, the trail narrows and becomes bumpier. Some choose to ride a bike with more suspension for this rougher section, but most touring bikes can handle the trail just fine from start to finish.
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McCormic Park marks the western terminus of the Kim Williams Trail and the eastern terminus of the Milwaukee Trail. The park has some playing fields, open space, picnic areas, and is nestled up right next to the river.
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This is the spot for a rest and refuel. Since it's the high spot on the trail it means you've put in the work and deserve a little break before reaping the reward of the descent.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Lolo National Forest?
Lolo National Forest offers a diverse selection of nearly 50 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with options ranging from easy riverside paths to more challenging trails with significant climbs.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Lolo National Forest has 12 easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the Kim Williams Trail and Riverfront Trail Loop, which is 10.5 miles long and follows the scenic Clark Fork River. Another easy choice is the 1.5-Mile Tunnel loop from Roland Summit, a shorter 3.3-mile route.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Lolo National Forest?
The terrain in Lolo National Forest is varied, featuring dense coniferous forests, river valleys, and rolling hills. You'll find a mix of gradual ascents and descents, with some areas offering more challenging climbs. Routes often utilize an extensive network of forest roads and trails, providing diverse surfaces for touring cyclists.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes in the area?
While many routes are shorter, some offer a good distance for touring. The 1.5-Mile Tunnel – Route of the Hiawatha Trail loop from Taft is a notable 22.9-mile route that takes you through historic railway tunnels and trestles, providing a longer touring experience.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in Lolo National Forest?
For those seeking a challenge, Lolo National Forest has 19 difficult touring cycling routes. The Snowbowl Overlook – Ewok Trail loop from Rattlesnake Trailhead is a demanding 11-mile route with significant elevation changes, offering a rigorous experience.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Lolo National Forest?
Yes, many routes in Lolo National Forest are designed as loops. Examples include the Kim Williams Trail and Riverfront Trail Loop and the 1.5-Mile Tunnel – Route of the Hiawatha Trail loop from Taft, allowing you to start and end at the same point.
What interesting places can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Along the routes, you can explore various natural features and trails. Highlights include the Kim Williams Trail, Deer Creek Sneak Trail, and the Rattlesnake Trail. These offer opportunities to experience the forest's beauty and river corridors.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lolo National Forest?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the extensive network of forest roads, and the scenic river views, particularly along the Clark Fork River.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Lolo National Forest?
While specific conditions vary, late spring through early fall generally offers the most favorable weather for touring cycling in Lolo National Forest. During these months, trails are typically clear of snow, and temperatures are pleasant, making for enjoyable rides through the forests and river valleys.
Are there any routes that follow river valleys?
Yes, many routes in Lolo National Forest utilize river corridors. The Kim Williams Trail and Riverfront Trail Loop, for instance, follows the Clark Fork River, offering continuous views of the water and surrounding natural areas.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes available?
Yes, Lolo National Forest features 17 moderate touring cycling routes. A popular choice is Ninemile Road, a 14.8-mile path that navigates through forested areas with a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, suitable for touring cyclists looking for a balanced challenge.
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