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Searching for the perfect vacation spot, especially with fantastic opportunities to explore and appreciate nature with your bicycle? Don’t miss out on the Bitterroot Bike Trail! It links Missoula to Hamilton and the charming towns along the route, alongside the rough Bitterroot Mountains. Riding along this historic trail allows you to embrace the charm, wonder, and adventure that Western Montana has to offer.
The Bitterroot Bike Trail
The Bitterroot Bike Trail is a paved route following US 93 from Missoula to Hamilton in Montana's picturesque Bitterroot Valley. It offers an excellent travel option and a valued recreational amenity compared to a crowded road. You will be rewarded with the breathtaking Bitterroot Trail scenery throughout its over 50-mile expanse, including the majestic Bitterroot Range on the western side and the Sapphire Mountains on the eastern side. The trail provides a perfect opportunity to discover the scenic area leisurely, with towns spread out along the route for resting and refueling and campgrounds offering amenities for multi-day trips.
Starting Point
The northern starting point of the trail is in downtown Missoula, where it connects with the Milwaukee Trail by the Clark Fork River and McCormick Park. From that point, the path will lead you southwest, tracing the ongoing railroad tracks and Ronan Street as it exits the town. If you want to explore the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula (3400 Captain Rawn Way), you can take a quarter-mile detour, which covers 32 acres and was founded in 1877. You’ll discover over twelve historical buildings to fully immerse yourself in the showcased regional and cultural heritage.
Lolo to Florence
After approximately 2 miles, the trail intersects with US 93 and will swiftly take you into the rural countryside. The upcoming village you will reach is Lolo, where you can detour briefly to the west on US 12 to visit Travelers' Rest State Park—once a campsite for Lewis and Clark in 1805 and 1806. Today, you can hike, fish, picnic, and observe wildlife at the 51-acre park.
It is 9 miles from Lolo to the nearby town of Florence, where you can replenish and refuel with groceries and dining options before continuing your cycling journey. Located near Florence in Montana, many well-known resting spots and a prime fishing location on the Bitterroot River are available.
Bass Creek to Stevensville
Just over 4 miles south of Florence, if you go right onto Bass Creek Road and travel west for about 2 miles, you will arrive at the Bass Creek Recreation Area. It offers excellent camping among spruce and fir trees, picnic spots, hiking paths, and entry to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.
Travel a bit further south, and you'll reach State Route 269. You can continue along the road heading southeast. Once you pass over the Bitterroot River in half a mile, you can join the Stevensville River Trail, which runs alongside SR 269 into downtown Stevensville, a small town known as Montana's inaugural permanent settlement. You can visit the Historic St. Mary's Mission on the west end of 4th Street to discover its history. Established in 1841, the mission's historical structures and relics recount the beginnings of both the state and the American West. The Stevensville trail also allows entry to Fort Owen State Park, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. Just two blocks away from the end of the trail stands the historic Stevensville Hotel (107 E. 3rd St.), constructed in 1910. It was originally the first hospital in the Bitterroot Valley and now operates as a bed-and-breakfast that provides bicycle camping in its backyard.
Victor to Corvallis
Continuing south on the Bitterroot Trail for approximately eight more miles will lead you to the town of Victor. Head west on Main Street in the town and drive only two blocks to see the Victor Heritage Museum at 125 Blake Street, located in a historic depot. Here, you can discover information about the railroad that the rail trail follows, the mining and farming industries in the area, and the Native Americans and early settlers who inhabited the region.
The trail changes to the east side of US 93 at SR 363, seven miles south of Victor. Going down the state highway will take you to the quaint town of Corvallis. Just north of where the trail crosses the Bitterroot River, Blodgett Park provides a shady resting spot with a view of the pristine waters.
Hamilton
In Hamilton, the trail may become more challenging to navigate, appearing like a sidewalk at certain points, but if you stay on US 93, you should be okay. Hamilton has numerous shops and eateries, mainly located on W. Main Street/SR 531, one block west of the Bitterroot Trail.
The path finishes to the south of Hamilton at a different bridge on the Bitterroot River. Here, many well-known campgrounds serve as a casual starting point for a trail. You can buy food, beverages, maps, books, and hunting and fishing equipment. They’re also a great starting point for RV enthusiasts and campers, as the location provides a spacious RV Park and camping options directly beside the Bitterroot River.
Bitterroot Elevation
The Bitterroot elevation on this trail will significantly influence your overall biking adventure. While biking, you will face both gentle slopes and more difficult inclines that test your stamina and cycling abilities. These elevation changes are crucial in deciding how challenging the trail will be, so you must be ready for them.
Preparation is crucial to address the Bitterroot elevation challenges. Concentrate on developing your stamina and muscle power with targeted exercises, and make sure you have appropriate equipment, such as a bike with the right gears for uphill rides. Tactics such as regulating your speed on steep climbs and using precise braking on descents can assist in handling the challenging portions of the trail.
The Bitterroot elevation profile affects riders with varying skill levels differently. Novices might struggle with the more steep portions, but they can still have a fun experience with proper planning and pacing. Experienced bike riders will find value in the trail's diverse features, which provide a mix of technical obstacles and chances to test their abilities.
Bitterroot Trail Scenery
The Bitterroot Valley, located in Western Montana, is a beloved destination known for its stunning landscapes and delightful small towns waiting to be discovered. The Bitterroot Trail is simply one of numerous ways to explore the Valley. The Bitterroot Trail scenery varies, from rich forests and shimmering rivers to vast grasslands, with the rough Bitterroot Range in the background.
The trail showcases iconic scenery and landmarks that embody the spirit of Montana's wilderness. While biking, you will come across expansive vistas of the Bitterroot Mountains and the Sapphire Mountains to the east, both providing you with picturesque sights of the beautiful Bitterroot scenery. Iconic sites, such as the grand St. Mary Peak and the scenic Bitterroot River, are essential stops for photographers and nature lovers looking for the ideal photograph.
Other Things to Do in Missoula
While the journey on the Bitterroot Bike Trail is stunning, there are numerous other fantastic activities to enjoy in Missoula this summer. Here, there is a wide range of activities and attractions to suit different interests—it’s like a treasure trove! You can see the region’s dynamic cultural life in its many art galleries, theaters, and live music venues, offering plenty of recreation and relaxation opportunities. Missoula provides various outdoor activities for nature lovers, such as hiking, biking in the nearby mountains, fishing, and rafting on the Clark Fork River.
The area's culinary offerings are just as outstanding, with a range of farm-to-table eateries, breweries, and farmers' markets highlighting the abundance of local agriculture. No matter what you decide to do, you will definitely have a memorable and satisfying experience.
Hike the Lush Trails
Begin your hike up Mount Sentinel from the Adams Center. The path to the "M" is well-maintained and easily visible; switchbacks make the steep ascent more manageable. Anticipate a refreshing exercise outdoors as you climb 620 feet over a 5-mile round trip, surrounded by fresh air and green scenery.
What is your prize for reaching the top? A large concrete "M", bright white against the green grass - a symbol of achievement at this elevation, overlooking Missoula in all its scenic splendor. Additionally, it is time-efficient as most complete their climb in just sixty minutes, so put on your shoes!
If you are close to our typical resting place at Holiday Inn, consider walking over. It takes less than two hours to return and completes a great day full of outdoor activities.
Enjoy Live Music
Every day, Missoula's vibrant nightlife scene is filled with live music. Places like the Top Hat Lounge offer the opportunity to exchange a pricey concert for a refreshing beer and lively music. Instead of spending money on tickets, opt for one of their delicious cocktails.
At Draught Works, the atmosphere is lively, with laughter and local bands drawing in crowds from Thursdays to Sundays. Imagine Nation has open mic nights on Mondays and hosts outdoor concerts when the weather is nice. Union Bar captivates dance enthusiasts with rhythmic beats, where historical charm meets lively energy, remaining vibrant after a century.
Red Bird combines Monday night dinners with mellow reggae or jazz in the elegant setting of the Florence Building—for those who desire a more upscale atmosphere but still want a touch of musical flavor. Headbangers also find a place of shelter. If you prefer metal over bluegrass, the Dark Horse offers free monthly shows for you to rock out to.
Sample Local Flavors
Missoula's Clark Fork River Market provides a special mix of shopping and local taste without the large crowds. Purchasing online and picking up your items at the curb is easy.
In 2021, Missoula came up with a smart idea called the "Local Food and Farm Passport" to support local farmers who faced sales losses. It directs you to markets and stores in three counties where collecting stamps could result in winning rewards.
Imagine Nation Brewery offers beer made from local hops every June, allowing customers to support farmers by providing small loans through Kiva. In August, you can participate in the Bike to Barns tour, where you can bike between farms and receive vouchers.
Experience The Bitterroot Mile Club!
Luxury collides with nature at The Bitterroot Mile Club. Picture waking up to the sight of Montana's meandering river from your king-sized bed in your luxurious glamping hut. Imagine a luxurious steam shower in your own room after a day fishing in top-notch locations - and this is only the beginning.
Exclusivity is the defining factor of this Hamilton retreat, with a maximum of 18 guests allowed at a time. You can select between adventure and tranquility in this place; hiking trails call out while snow covers paths for skiing in the winter—guidance is available for either option. Skilled employees infuse a sense of belonging in their service, creating a familial connection through a shared love for nature.
Riverside cabins, skillfully created by hospitality experts, offer luxuries such as double sinks and private decks with views of the Bitterroot River, enhancing privacy. Reserve your stay now!