River's Edge Trail

The trail offers a varied terrain. Within the city, sections are paved and ADA accessible. As you venture further, it transitions to gravel, single-track, and double-track, especially along the reservoirs. Some parts follow former railroad lines, hugging canyon walls. East of Great Falls, the terrain becomes wilder, featuring carved river canyons, bluffs, coulees, and can include significant hills.

You'll be treated to spectacular views of the Missouri River, its five waterfalls (including the Great Falls of the Missouri River at Ryan Dam, Black Eagle Falls, and Crooked Falls), and five hydroelectric dams. The trail meanders through picturesque landscapes of mountains, prairies, reservoirs, and dramatic river canyons. It's also a great spot for birdwatching and observing other wildlife.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activity and section. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking. Summer is popular, but some sections can be exposed. Winter hiking is possible, especially on paved sections, but be prepared for snow and ice on unpaved trails.

Yes, the trail caters to a wide range of fitness levels. The paved sections within Great Falls are generally easy and accessible. However, the single-track trails east of Great Falls, particularly those along the reservoirs, are significantly more challenging, with some sections described as technical or expert-level due to elevation changes and rugged conditions.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the River's Edge Trail. It's always best to keep them on a leash and ensure you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness and respect other users.

There are numerous access points and parking areas along the extensive River's Edge Trail system, particularly in and around Great Falls. Many city parks and points of interest connected by the trail offer parking facilities. For specific locations, you can check local Great Falls visitor information resources like visitgreatfallsmontana.org.

No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the River's Edge Trail in Great Falls, Montana. It is a public trail system designed for community enjoyment.

The trail is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. You can visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, Giant Springs State Park, and the Montana State Fish Hatchery. It also connects various parks, museums, and downtown Great Falls. Keep an eye out for public art installations, including murals and sculptures, along the way.

Yes, the komoot route for the River's Edge Trail primarily follows segments of the larger River's Edge Trail system, which is an extensive network. Specifically, this route covers sections officially designated as River's Edge Trail and Rivers Edge Trail.

Yes, especially in the more developed sections, you'll find amenities such as benches, picnic tables, shelters, restrooms, and informational kiosks. These are particularly prevalent in areas closer to Great Falls and its parks.

The River's Edge Trail is an extensive system with many possible configurations. While the komoot route provided is an out-and-back segment, the overall trail system offers numerous loop opportunities by utilizing different sections on both sides of the Missouri River and connecting bridges.