Montana, the “Treasure State,” is renowned not only for its majestic landscapes and magnificent national parks but also as a haven for cycling enthusiasts. From winding trails through dense forests to routes stretching alongside pristine lakes, Montana offers countless unforgettable cycling experiences. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) to discover the most beautiful bike routes in Montana, where you can immerse yourself in unspoiled nature and fully appreciate the endless beauty of the American West.
Going-to-the-Sun Road: A Legendary Route Through Glacier National Park
Going-to-the-Sun Road, the jewel of Glacier National Park, is one of the most challenging and beautiful cycling routes not only in Montana but also in the entire United States. Stretching 50 miles (approximately 80km), this road takes you through majestic mountain ranges, along towering cliffs, and unveils breathtaking views of pristine, turquoise glacial lakes.
The journey on Going-to-the-Sun Road begins at the shores of picturesque Lake McDonald, where you can feel the tranquility of the still water mirroring the mountains. Gradually, the road starts to climb, leading you deeper into the heart of the national park. Consecutive hairpin turns test the endurance and skill of cyclists, but in return, you are rewarded with awe-inspiring natural scenery.
The highlight of the route is Logan Pass, the highest point accessible by car on Going-to-the-Sun Road, situated at an elevation of 6,646 feet (approximately 2,026 meters). From here, you can take in panoramic views of the vast mountains, pristine glaciers, and deep valleys. In summer, wildflowers bloom along the roadside, adding more color to the stunning natural canvas.
However, conquering Going-to-the-Sun Road is not easy. The route has steep gradients, many winding and dangerous sections, and mountain weather can be unpredictable. Therefore, you need to be well-prepared physically, equipped with a suitable bicycle, and monitor the weather forecast before starting your journey. The best time to cycle Going-to-the-Sun Road is from late June to mid-September, when the road is fully open after the winter snow.
Cyclists on a scenic road with mountains and a lake in the background
Hiawatha Trail: A Historic Bike Trail Through Lolo National Forest
The Hiawatha Trail, part of the old Milwaukee Road railway, is another unique cycling experience in Montana. This 15-mile (approximately 24km) trail is located in Lolo National Forest, near the Montana-Idaho border. The highlight of the Hiawatha Trail is cycling through 10 dark railway tunnels and across 7 high trestles, offering a sense of adventure and historical exploration.
The longest tunnel on the Hiawatha Trail is the Taft Tunnel, stretching 1.66 miles (approximately 2.7km). Cycling in the pitch-black tunnel, with only your headlamp to guide you, is an unforgettable experience. Emerging from the tunnel, you’ll be greeted by lush green forests and deep valleys.
The Hiawatha Trail is a gently downhill trail, ideal for families and beginner mountain bikers. You can rent bikes and headlamps at the trailhead. For safety and the best experience, bring a warm jacket as temperatures inside the tunnels can be quite cold, even in summer.
Route of the Hiawatha: The Perfect Family Bike Ride
Route of the Hiawatha, often shortened to Hiawatha Trail, is actually the full name of the trail we just mentioned above. To avoid confusion, you can understand Hiawatha Trail as the more common and concise name. This route is not only a fantastic bike trail but also a historical landmark, bearing the imprint of American railway history.
With its gentle downhill slope and well-maintained trail surface, the Route of the Hiawatha is an ideal choice for family bike trips. Children can easily conquer this route, getting exercise while exploring nature and history.
Along the way, you’ll encounter information boards introducing the history of the Milwaukee Road railway and the construction of the tunnels and trestles. This makes the bike ride both fun and highly educational, especially for children.
Bitterroot Trail: Exploring the Serene Bitterroot Valley
The Bitterroot Trail is a 50-mile (approximately 80km) paved path that runs along the beautiful Bitterroot Valley in Western Montana. This route passes through charming small towns, lush green farms, and vibrant wildflower fields. The Bitterroot Trail offers a relaxing cycling experience, immersing you in the peaceful rural life of Montana.
The Bitterroot Trail starts in Missoula, Montana’s second-largest city, and ends in Hamilton, a beautiful small town in the southern part of the valley. Along the way, you can stop at roadside cafes, enjoy local cuisine, and chat with friendly locals.
The Bitterroot Trail is ideal for those who want to enjoy long-distance cycling without too much terrain challenge. The smooth paved surface makes it easy to ride and enjoy the surrounding scenery. Autumn is the most beautiful time to cycle the Bitterroot Trail, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow and red, creating a romantic and captivating landscape.
Beartooth Highway: A Majestic Mountain Pass to Yellowstone’s Golden Gate
Beartooth Highway, also known as U.S. Highway 212, is a spectacular mountain pass connecting Montana and Wyoming, leading to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Although not entirely within Montana (part of it is in Wyoming), the Beartooth Highway is still a must-visit destination for cycling enthusiasts in Montana.
Reaching an elevation of 10,947 feet (approximately 3,337 meters) at Beartooth Pass summit, Beartooth Highway is one of the highest and most challenging mountain passes in the United States. This 68-mile (approximately 109km) route is famous for its hairpin turns, sheer cliffs, and magnificent mountain scenery.
Cycling on Beartooth Highway is a significant challenge, requiring experienced cyclists with good physical condition. However, the rewards are unforgettable experiences and stunning photographs. From the summit, you can admire panoramic views of the pristine Beartooth Mountains and glacial lakes sparkling in the sunlight.
Beartooth Highway is typically open from late May or early June to mid-October, depending on weather conditions. Before planning a cycling trip on this route, check road conditions and weather forecasts to ensure safety.
Conclusion
Montana is not only a state with wild and majestic nature but also an ideal destination for those passionate about bicycle tourism. The cross-state bike routes in Montana introduced by “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel the World) above are just a small part of the countless beautiful and exciting routes you can explore. Plan your cycling adventure in Montana, and you won’t regret witnessing the wonderful beauty that nature has bestowed upon this land.