River's Edge Trail

The River's Edge Trail in Great Falls, Montana, offers a diverse terrain. You'll find a mix of paved urban paths, including a 3.5-mile loop through the city, and unpaved single-track sections. The single-track trails hug rugged canyon walls, winding through native bluffs and coulees, especially along the North and South Shores of the Missouri River. Some sections, like "Mayhem" and "Chaos," are more technical.

Along the trail, you'll experience spectacular views of mountains, prairies, river canyons, and the five hydroelectric dams of the Missouri River. Key natural features include the Missouri River itself and Sacajawea Island, known for birdwatching. The trail also showcases 27 public art pieces and provides access to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center and Giant Springs State Park.

Yes, the trail caters to all recreation levels. The paved urban sections are generally accessible and easy for beginners. While some single-track sections, particularly "Mayhem" and "Chaos," are designated as technical and physically challenging, many other parts of the trail offer a moderate experience. Trail sections are clearly marked to indicate their difficulty, allowing you to choose routes that match your skill level.

Yes, dogs are permitted on the trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times. There is also an adjacent off-leash dog park available for your furry companions.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall often offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for snow and ice on certain sections.

The River's Edge Trail is well-equipped with numerous trailheads and access points throughout Great Falls. You'll find ample parking available at various parks and access points along the route. Specific parking details can often be found on local tourism websites like visitgreatfallsmontana.org.

No, you do not need a permit, and there are no entrance fees to access the River's Edge Trail. It is a public trail network freely accessible to all.

The trail offers a variety of amenities to enhance your experience. You'll find numerous trailheads, benches for resting, picnic tables, shelters, and restrooms. Clear mileage and directional markers are also present throughout the network, making navigation easy.

Absolutely! The paved urban sections of the trail are particularly family-friendly, offering smooth surfaces suitable for strollers and young children. These sections connect to various parks and attractions, making them ideal for a leisurely family outing. Many of the less technical single-track paths are also suitable for families looking for a bit more adventure.

Yes, the route is part of an extensive network. It primarily follows the River's Edge Trail but also passes through sections of the "Rivers Edge Trail" and the "Missouri River Bridge" at various points.

Yes, the trail network includes several loop options. A notable one is a 3.5-mile paved loop through the heart of Great Falls, which is perfect for a shorter, accessible outing. With nearly 60 miles of interconnected paths, you can create various loop configurations by utilizing the numerous bridges and access points along both sides of the Missouri River.