The best road cycling routes around Great Falls

There are over 90 road cycling routes around Great Falls, offering a wide range of experiences from easy rides to more challenging ascents. The komoot community has explored these diverse routes over 2700 times.

Yes, Great Falls offers several easier routes. The River's Edge Trail is particularly family-friendly, offering paved paths along the Missouri River with scenic views and light traffic. For a flatter, shorter road route, the Ulm (15 miles out and back) option provides views of the Missouri River and Cascade Butte.

Road cycling routes in Great Falls often feature stunning views of the Missouri River, its dramatic waterfalls (like Black Eagle Falls, Rainbow Falls, and the Great Falls), and expansive prairies. You can also pass by Great Falls Overlook, or explore areas near Great Falls Park on the C&O Trail. Distant mountain ranges like the Highwood Mountains are visible from many routes.

Yes, for a more challenging ride, consider the Montevideo Road – Old Seneca Quarry Stone Mill loop from Seneca. This 57.6-mile route features a significant elevation gain of over 2400 feet (744 meters). The Eden route (42 miles out and back) also includes challenging hills reaching the foothills of the Little Belt Mountains.

Great Falls' local climate, influenced by Chinook winds, can allow for earlier and later riding opportunities compared to other parts of Montana. Generally, spring through fall offers the most pleasant conditions, with summer being ideal for longer days. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, many routes around Great Falls are designed as loops. A popular moderate option is the Montevideo Road – Seneca Schoolhouse loop from Seneca, which covers 25.7 miles. Another loop, the Lock 25 Large Maple – Seneca Schoolhouse loop from Seneca, is 34.7 miles long and takes about 3 hours to complete.

Many routes, especially those connected to the River's Edge Trail, offer accessible parking. Gibson Park is a prominent stop on the River's Edge Trail and a popular starting point with parking. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for designated parking areas or trailheads.

The road cycling routes in Great Falls are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, scenic views of the Missouri River and distant mountains, and the variety of terrain that caters to different skill levels.

Yes, the Benton Lake (28 miles out and back) route offers views of the lake and leads to the noted Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which is a great spot for birdwatching. You can also find highlights like Widewater near some routes.

The River's Edge Trail connects to Great Falls' historic downtown, which offers various restaurants and cafes. While specific cafes aren't listed directly on all routes, planning your ride to pass through or near the downtown area or other small towns like Belt (via the Highwood Road to Belt route) will provide opportunities for refreshments.

The Stockett route (43 miles out and back) heads east and winds through a historic coal-mining district after a 700-foot climb up Stockett Hill. Additionally, the River's Edge Trail connects to the city's historic downtown, allowing cyclists to explore the urban landscape and its history.

The terrain around Great Falls is diverse, featuring a mix of flat sections along river trails, rolling hills, and more challenging climbs into the foothills of surrounding mountains. You'll encounter well-paved roads, lightly traveled rural residential roads, and some routes with stimulating hills, offering options for various preferences.