The best road cycling routes in Missoula County

Missoula County offers over 25 road cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to discover the region's diverse landscapes.

The prime seasons for road biking in Missoula County are typically spring, summer, and fall. During these months, you can enjoy the stunning mountain and river landscapes without the challenges of winter conditions. While fat biking is popular in winter, road cycling is best enjoyed when trails are clear of snow and ice.

Yes, Missoula County has several family-friendly options, particularly easy, mostly paved routes. The Clark Fork River – Jacob's Island loop from Bancroft St & Dearborn Ave is an easy 25.5-mile (41.0 km) trail that leads through riverfront areas. Sections of the Bitterroot Trail also offer safe, car-free riding suitable for families.

Absolutely. Missoula County features numerous loop routes. A popular choice is the Missoula/Clark Fork River loop, a moderate 31.6-mile (50.9 km) path offering river views and city sights. Other options include the Bitterroot Trail – Bitterroot River loop from Missoula and the Bitterroot River loop from Missoula.

Missoula County offers varied terrain. You'll find flat valley paths along the Clark Fork and Bitterroot Rivers, such as the Bitterroot Trail with minimal elevation gain. For more challenging rides, routes like the East Missoula loop feature moderate climbs, with some routes reaching over 750 meters of elevation gain within the surrounding mountain ranges.

Yes, Missoula County is known for its extensive paved infrastructure. The 50-mile Bitterroot Trail is a prime example, offering a car-free paved experience. The city of Missoula itself boasts over 22 miles of off-street trails and 40 miles of on-street bike lanes, providing many paved options for road cyclists.

The Missoula/Clark Fork River loop passes through various parks and city sights, meaning you'll find amenities like cafes, restaurants, and public facilities nearby. Missoula is a bike-friendly city with local outfitters for bike rentals and a vibrant cycling community, ensuring access to services and support.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty and points of interest. Along the Clark Fork River, you can enjoy river views and city sights. The Bitterroot Trail provides continuous views of the majestic Bitterroot Mountains and the picturesque Bitterroot River. You might also spot wildlife along trails like the Kim Williams Trail, which runs along the Clark Fork River.

Missoula County is rich in natural landmarks. You can explore the The M Trail on Mount Sentinel, offering panoramic views, or visit the Lolo National Forest. The region is also home to beautiful lakes like Holland Lake and Cold Lake, providing scenic detours or destinations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from flat river paths to challenging mountain climbs, and the breathtaking scenery of the Bitterroot Mountains and various rivers. The extensive network of paved and gravel roads, combined with a strong bike-friendly culture, also receives high marks.

While popular routes like the Bitterroot Trail can see more activity, Missoula County's vast network includes many quieter roads. Routes like Miller Creek Road and Petty Creek Road, which transition from paved to gravel, offer beautiful views along rivers and through woods with less traffic. Southside Road, starting in Alberton, is another option for early-season gravel riding with minimal crowds.

Missoula County, being a bike-friendly area, generally offers accessible parking near popular trailheads and parks. For routes starting within Missoula, city parks and designated parking areas often serve as convenient starting points. For longer trails like the Bitterroot Trail, various access points along its length typically have parking facilities.