River's Edge Trail, Great Falls
in Central Montana

Over fifty-seven miles of trails along both sides of the historic Missouri River provide spectacular views of parks, the river canyon, 5 hydroelectric dams, reservoirs and waterfalls. Waterfowl and other wildlife abound. Rest areas, benches and picnic shelters are plentiful and interesting destinations, such as Giant Springs, the FWP Visitor Center and Fish Hatchery and the Lewis and Clark Historic Trail Interpretive Center dot the way.

Over 20 miles of paved urban trails link numerous parks, riverfront attractions and downtown Great Falls with the river overlooks at Rainbow Falls and Crooked Falls. Look down at panoramic views of the city through a free telescope at the Warden Park Gazebo or look up at a waterfall from Black Eagle Memorial Island. Enjoy the 3.5 mile paved loop of the urban riverfront and end up at your hotel or car. Try an interesting 2.1 mile paved loop through Giant Springs State Park. Maybe you want to get off the pavement and onto the 29 miles of well-signed dirt single track trails east of town, many built to IMBA standards. Go for it. Look down on the Great Falls of the Missouri. Discover the giant dry waterfall.

River’s Edge Trail is free and open to non-motorized public recreation during daylight hours 365 days of the year. North and south shore trails are served by 14 paved trailhead parking areas. Visit the River’s Edge Trail web site to view or download a current trail map, watch a great video and see what trail events and projects we are working on this year. You can pick up a free copy of the River’s Edge Trail map at the Visitor’s Center, local bike shops, the Park & Recreation office or Giant Springs State Park Visitor Center.

Download the River's Edge Trail Map