Bitterroot Trail

This Bitterroot Trail – Bitterroot River loop from Hellgate High School offers a delightful touring cycling experience, tracing the river's edge with continuous views of the Bitterroot Mountains to the west and the Sapphire Mountains to the east. You'll glide along a smooth, paved surface, passing through varied landscapes of forests and grasslands, making for a consistently pleasant ride. It's an easy 16.9-mile (27.3 km) route with just 281 feet (86 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes, perfect for a relaxed outing.

To start this scenic loop, head to Hellgate High School in Missoula, where you'll find convenient parking for trail access. The Bitterroot Trail is known for being well-maintained and entirely traffic-free, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all skill levels. It's a great option for a casual ride any time the weather is fair.

This section of the Bitterroot Trail is part of a much larger network connecting Missoula to Hamilton, offering a glimpse into the picturesque Bitterroot Valley. It's a fantastic way to experience the region's natural beauty, following historic routes like the Lewis & Clark Trail, all while enjoying a smooth, accessible ride away from vehicle traffic.

The Clark Fork River – McCormick Park loop offers a fantastic touring cycling experience right through Missoula, Montana. This 23.5-mile (37.8 km) route, with a moderate difficulty and just 705 feet (215 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 2 hours and 25 minutes to complete. You'll primarily follow the paved Riverfront Trail system, enjoying continuous views of the Clark Fork River, passing through McCormick Park, and connecting to various city attractions. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like osprey and kingfishers along the way.

For a smooth ride, plan your visit during spring through fall when the weather is most inviting, though the trail is accessible year-round. McCormick Park is a convenient starting point, providing ample parking and amenities. Missoula is very bike-friendly, so you'll find the trails well-maintained and easy to navigate, making this a great option for a relaxed outing.

This route stands out for its seamless integration of urban convenience and natural beauty. The Riverfront Trail system connects downtown Missoula with parks and the University of Montana, offering a unique perspective on the city. While the route name includes "Lincoln Rd & Lincolnwood," the actual touring cycling experience is centered on the Riverfront Trail, which is distinct from the more rugged mountain biking trails found in the Lincoln Hills area.

Experience the vibrant heart of Missoula on the Clark Fork River – McCormick Park loop, a route that promises scenic beauty and urban convenience. This easy touring cycling adventure primarily follows the paved Riverfront Trail, winding through downtown Missoula, past various bridges, and offering picturesque views of the Clark Fork River and the accessible Clark Fork Natural Area. While the full loop is listed at 14.4 miles (23.2 km) with a modest 335 feet (102 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 22 minutes, touring cyclists should focus on the flat river paths, as the Mount Jumbo sections are better suited for mountain bikes.

Planning your ride is straightforward; the Riverfront Trail is a popular, well-maintained path, perfect for a leisurely outing or a quick commute. You'll find McCormick Park directly along the trail, offering a pleasant spot for a break. The trail's accessibility to downtown Missoula means you're never far from amenities, making it easy to grab a coffee or a meal. This route is ideal for all skill levels looking for a relaxed ride through Missoula's urban landscape.

This route stands out for its seamless blend of natural riverine scenery and city access, making it one of the best bike rides in Missoula for those on touring bicycles. The Clark Fork River is a central feature, providing a calming backdrop to your journey, while the trail's connection to McCormick Park offers open green spaces right by the water. It's a fantastic way to explore Missoula's natural features and urban core without venturing onto challenging, unpaved terrain.