The best traffic-free bike rides in Lewis and Clark County

Our guide features 7 carefully selected no-traffic gravel bike trails in Lewis and Clark County, offering a range of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are designed to provide a peaceful ride away from vehicular traffic.

Lewis and Clark County is renowned for its 'unmatched gravel' roads, featuring everything from 'flowing fire-road rollers' to routes with 'sweeping bluff-top views' along the historic Missouri River. You'll encounter diverse landscapes, including forested highlands, woody valley bottoms, and broad grassy meadows, especially within the Helena National Forest area.

While many of the routes in this guide are rated as moderate to difficult, offering significant elevation gains and longer distances, areas like Tenmile Creek Park are known for easier rides. For a moderate option, consider the Montana State Capitol, Helena – Capitol Hill loop from Montana State Capitol Building, which covers 18.3 km with over 400 meters of elevation gain.

You'll find stunning natural beauty. Many routes traverse the vast Helena National Forest, offering views of coniferous forests and high mountain peaks. The region also features dramatic cliffs along the Missouri River, and you might pass by Spring Meadow State Park, known for its serene lake and wildlife. The Lime Kiln Ruins – Park Lake and Campground loop from Helena offers a blend of natural scenery and historical interest.

Yes, Lewis and Clark County is rich in history. You can explore sites like the Lime Kiln Ruins, which offer a glimpse into the area's industrial past. The Lime Kiln Ruins – Park Lake and Campground loop from Helena directly incorporates this historical landmark into the ride. Additionally, the Mansion District in Helena is a notable historical area you might encounter.

The best time for gravel biking in Lewis and Clark County is typically from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and trails are clear of snow, allowing for optimal riding conditions. Winter brings snow, making many trails suitable for snow sports rather than biking.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Lincoln – Lincoln, Montana loop from Tip Top Mine offer a substantial adventure. This difficult route spans over 141 km with more than 1600 meters of elevation gain, taking you through remote forested highlands.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Lewis and Clark County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Lincoln – Lincoln, Montana loop from Tip Top Mine and the Helena – Mansion District loop from Helena, providing convenient round trips.

Parking is generally available at the starting points of many trails, particularly around Helena and in areas like Grizzly Gulch, Priest Pass, and Rimini Road. For routes starting near urban centers, such as the Lime Kiln Ruins – Montana State Capitol, Helena loop from Montana State Capitol Building, you can often find parking near the Montana State Capitol Building or other designated areas.

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Lewis and Clark County often feature significant elevation gains, reflecting the region's mountainous and hilly terrain. For instance, the Helena – Mansion District loop from Helena includes over 1300 meters of ascent, while the Lime Kiln Ruins – Park Lake and Campground loop from Helena has over 1500 meters of climbing. Be prepared for challenging climbs and rewarding descents.

Yes, several trails in the Helena area provide excellent views of Mount Helena, which prominently overlooks the city. While not explicitly listed as a starting point, routes originating from Helena, such as the Montana State Capitol, Helena – Capitol Hill loop from Montana State Capitol Building, will offer scenic vistas of this iconic natural feature as you ride through the surrounding landscape.