The best running trails around Great Falls

Komoot offers over 110 running routes around Great Falls, providing a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy paved paths to more challenging dirt trails.

The running trails in Great Falls offer diverse terrain. You'll find extensive paved urban trails, particularly along the River's Edge Trail, as well as over 30 miles of single-track dirt paths winding through native bluffs and coulees. Many routes feature scenic views along the Missouri River and expansive prairie landscapes.

Yes, Great Falls has several easy running routes. For instance, the Billy Goat A Trail Entrance loop from Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is an easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) trail that takes about 34 minutes to complete, leading through pleasant riverine landscapes.

Absolutely! Great Falls is named for its series of five waterfalls along the Missouri River. Many sections of the River's Edge Trail offer spectacular views of these falls, including Great Falls, Crooked Falls, Rainbow Falls, Colter Falls, and Black Eagle Falls. You can also find viewpoints for Ryan Dam and Rainbow Dam along the river.

The running routes in Great Falls are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 1,600 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic river views and the mix of paved and natural surfaces.

Yes, many of the running routes in Great Falls are loops, offering a convenient way to start and end in the same location. An example is the moderate Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls – Widewater loop from Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, which is 3.6 miles (5.8 km) long.

While running, you can explore several unique landmarks. The Great Falls Overlook provides stunning views. You can also run near Giant Springs State Park, home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the country and the Roe River. The Great Falls Park on the C&O Trail is another notable spot.

For those seeking a challenge, Great Falls offers several difficult routes. The Pennyfield Lock – Horseshoe Bend at Great Falls loop from Pennyfield Lock Neighborhood Conservation Area is a difficult 14.1-mile (22.7 km) path, providing a longer and more strenuous experience with varied river scenery.

Many trails in Great Falls, especially sections of the River's Edge Trail and paths within state parks, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to check specific park regulations or trail signage for leash requirements and any restricted areas before heading out with your canine companion.

Great Falls is situated on the northern Great Plains, offering expansive prairie vistas with the Rocky Mountain Front visible in the distance. Trails like the North Shore single-track wind through native bluffs and coulees, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains, especially on clear days.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant running conditions in Great Falls, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, so early morning or evening runs are often preferred. Winter running is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice on trails, especially on unpaved sections.

Yes, Giant Springs State Park is a must-see. It's home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the country and the Roe River, recognized as the world's shortest river. The park offers clear pools and lush areas, with trails connecting to the River's Edge Trail, making it a beautiful and unique spot for a run.