River's Edge Trail
Great Falls, Montana, United States59404
Terrain:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Distance: 19.3 km
Notes:
There are 25 miles of nicely paved trails on both sides of the beautiful Missouri River that pass 2 major dams and 3 huge waterfalls. The North Side Trail is easy to moderate, with gentle ups and downs and no sudden or radical turns. The North trail ends at Black Eagle dam. The South side is much longer and more challenging with slightly steeper ups and downs and several quick descents into sharp turns for underpass tunnels. This side ends with an approx 1 mile ascent to the Crooked Falls overlook. Which on the return trip can become a real adrenaline rush.
Directions: There are parking areas along the entire length of the trail on both sides of the river. Crossing the river at the 9th Street Bridge and the Weissman's Bridge makes a nice approx 4 mile round trip.
Facilities: Bathrooms, benches, and picnic tables are plentiful the length of the trail. Bring your tennies and take side trips to Gibson Park, Black Eagle Island, Riverside Railyard Skate Park, Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.
Recommend: There are interesting sights along the entire length of the trail. This is a terrific opportunity for inline skaters. Be aware that Great Falls is a windy city, but don't let that be a factor. Just shorten your stride and KEEP SKATING!!
