Spring in Western Montana brings longer days and snow-free trails at lower elevations, making it a great time to get outside. While higher elevations may still be snow-covered, many in-town and nearby trails are clear and ready to explore. These easy, family-friendly hikes offer a simple way to stretch your legs, take in the scenery and experience Western Montana’s communities on foot—no steep climbs required.

FORTLOOP TRAIL, MISSOULA

Directions: In Missoula, head to Fort Missoula Regional Park. Home to nine multisport fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a dog park and more, Fortloop Trail loops the entire park—an approximately 2.5-mile hike. In total, there are 7 miles of trails to explore, some of which connect directly to the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula, which includes 20 historical structures and buildings on the grounds.

Round-Trip Distance: Fortloop Trail, 2.5 miles.

The Fortloop Trail naturally connects to the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula. Photo: Destination Missoula

MILWAUKEE TRAIL / KIM WILLIAMS TRAIL, MISSOULA

Directions: Located in the heart of downtown Missoula, the Milwaukee Trail was built on top of the old Milwaukee Railroad tracks and follows the Clark Fork River through downtown to the University of Montana. The trail then merges into the Kim Williams Nature Trail and continues on between the Clark Fork River and the base of Mount Sentinel. If you stay quiet along the river, you’re likely to see wildlife, like blue herons and sandhill cranes or an osprey in one of multiple nests. To walk the entire length of this wide, flat trail, park at McCormick Park.

Round-Trip Distance: From McCormick, 13 miles. For a shorter hike, turn around at the university, 4.4 miles.

The Kim Williams Trail is a serene and beautiful hike. Photo: Destination Missoula

BAD ROCK CANYON TRAIL, COLUMBIA FALLS

Directions: From Columbia Falls, access the Bad Rock Canyon trailhead off U.S. Highway 2 at the BPA Powerline Corridor. Look for a dirt parking area, gate and signage directly off the highway. This primitive trail travels through open meadows and forest within the Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area, offering easy walking and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Round-Trip Distance: Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Trail, 6 miles.

WHITEFISH RIVER PATH

Directions: Whitefish has a network of in-town trails, which are maintained year-round. The Whitefish River Trail, one of the most accessible walks, begins at Riverside Park. The paved path travels through town along the Whitefish River and along part of Whitefish Lake. The path eventually connects to Reservoir Road, just 0.5 miles from the Reservoir Trailhead of The Whitefish Trail—one of 12 trailheads that encompass 47 miles of trails.

Round-Trip Distance: The Whitefish River path has approximately 15 miles of paved path, which then connects to The Whitefish Trail. Hike for however long you want, then turn around.

This scenic path is great for all ages. Photo: Brian Schott / Explore Whitefish

GREAT NORTHERN RAILS TO TRAILS, KALISPELL, SOMERS, KILA

Directions: The Great Northern Historical Trail extends 22 miles between Somers—at the north end of Flathead Lake—and Kalispell, then south, ending at the tiny community of Kila (no amenities, but parking is available). Start in Somers, Kila or Kalispell. The trail follows the old Great Northern Railway route, with views of the Swan, Mission, Salish and Whitefish ranges. To find the trail in Kalispell, head west until you meet the intersection of U.S. 2 and Spring Creek Road. Find parking just east of the intersection.

Round-Trip Distance: 44 miles round-trip. Pick your starting point, then turn around whenever you want.

Explore as much or as little of this 22-mile trail. Photo: Rails to Trails of Northwest Montana

CUT BANK COULEE TRAIL

Directions: From Cut Bank, find parking for the Cut Bank Coulee Trail at two trailheads. The east trailhead is located at Seventh Avenue South and Dean Drive. The west trailhead is located at Mountain View Boulevard and Lookout Road. This U-shaped trail follows the Cut Bank Creek Coulee for 2.3 miles.

Round-Trip Distance: 4.6 miles.

Enjoy views of the Cut Bank Coulee and rolling plains on the 2-mile Cut Bank Coulee Trail.

MULE PASTURE LOOP, THOMPSON FALLS

Directions: Mule Pasture Loop is 0.5 miles north of Thompson Falls. Follow the USFS direction signs from either the east or west ramp north of Highway 200. The Mule Pasture Loop travels through a wooded setting, which feels remote yet is in town, and is an easy 2.3-mile loop.

Round-Trip Distance: 2.3 miles.

Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.

April 27, 2026

Related: Columbia Falls, Cut Bank, Family Fun, Hiking, Kalispell, Kila, Missoula, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Parks, Somers, Spring Fun, Thompson Falls, Vacation, Whitefish

Comments