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Kim Williams Trail – Clark Fork River loop from Hellgate High School

Kim Williams Trail – Clark Fork River loop from Hellgate High School

Moderate

4.6

(8988)

9,433

riders

Kim Williams Trail – Clark Fork River loop from Hellgate High School

01:56

29.6km

340m

Gravel riding

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: May 22, 2026

Tips

Temporary access restrictions

Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.

After 25.7 km for 345 m

Discouraged

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

3.29 km

Jacob's Island

Highlight • Natural

Jacob's Island is a dog park on the banks of Clark Fork River. The park is 6 acres and the river works as a beautiful natural barrier for the dogs. …

Tip by

6.14 km

Kim Williams Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Kim Williams Trail is a super popular trail in Missoula. It follows along the river the majority of the way, but it is often times tucked in the trees …

Tip by

14.2 km

View of Woody Mountain and Mount Jumbo Wildlife Management Area

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

There is a great view here of Woody Mountain and the Mount Jumbo Wildlife Management Area. This double-track road is pretty smooth and most bikes can handle the terrain pretty easily.

Tip by

25.6 km

Downtown Missoula

Highlight • Settlement

Nestled in the northern Rockies, the city is known as the "Garden City" for its lush surroundings as well as trout fishing. The city is home to the University of Montana, founded in 1893.

Tip by

27.1 km

Clark Fork River

Highlight • River

The Clark Fork is the river that runs through Missoula. The Kim Williams Trail runs parallel to its course. Many parks and walking and cycling paths border the river.

Tip by

29.6 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

9.23 km

6.02 km

5.25 km

5.14 km

3.76 km

130 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

12.1 km

10.8 km

5.51 km

1.15 km

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (1,210 m)

Lowest point (970 m)

Weather

Today

Friday 26 June

18°C

13°C

95 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Description

If you're looking for a rewarding gravel biking experience that blends scenic river views with a manageable challenge, the Kim Williams Trail – Clark Fork River loop from Hellgate High School is an excellent choice. This popular gravel biking route covers 18.4 miles (29.6 km) with 1124 feet (343 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 55 minutes to complete at a moderate pace. It's a fantastic option for riders with good fitness who want to explore Missoula's natural beauty without tackling extreme terrain.

What to expect on Kim Williams Trail – Clark Fork River loop from Hellgate High School

This loop offers a dynamic ride along the meandering Clark Fork River, showcasing the rugged Rocky Mountains and broad valleys. You'll encounter a mix of paved and dirt/gravel surfaces, starting smooth near the University of Montana campus before becoming narrower and bumpier further east. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer, eagles, and osprey, especially as you pass through forested canyon walls and open valley stretches. The iconic Mount Sentinel often provides a picturesque backdrop, making the effort feel well worth it. While sections of the Kim Williams Trail are easy, the full loop's distance and varied terrain elevate it to a moderate difficulty, suitable for those ready for a longer ride.

Planning your visit

The trail is easily accessible from downtown Missoula and the University of Montana campus, with parking available near Hellgate High School. As a popular multi-use path, it can get busy, especially on weekends, so consider an early start for a quieter experience. While the route is generally accessible year-round, be cautious of potential icy conditions on gravel sections during winter months. This trail connects with the Riverfront Trail system, offering further exploration options if you wish to extend your ride.

Trail details