Kim Williams Trail – Deer Creek Sneak Trail loop from Missoula
Kim Williams Trail – Deer Creek Sneak Trail loop from Missoula
4.8
(5178)
9,196
riders
Kim Williams Trail – Deer Creek Sneak Trail loop from Missoula
03:00
33.6km
490m
Cycling
Hard bike ride. Very 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 28, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
2.16 km
Downtown Missoula
Highlight • Settlement
Tip by
3.16 km
Jacob's Island
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
6.01 km
Kim Williams Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
13.0 km
Deer Creek Sneak Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
31.0 km
Clark Fork River
Highlight • River
Tip by
31.6 km
McCormick Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Tip by
33.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.1 km
5.80 km
4.91 km
4.64 km
2.07 km
1.12 km
< 100 m
Surfaces
21.6 km
9.50 km
2.26 km
224 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,340 m)
Lowest point (970 m)
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Weather
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Sunday 14 June
27°C
4°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a touring cycling route that truly offers a tale of two trails, the Kim Williams Trail – Deer Creek Sneak Trail loop from Missoula is worth your time. This difficult 20.9-mile (33.6 km) route, with 1620 feet (494 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 2 hours and 59 minutes. It's an excellent choice for cyclists with very good fitness who want a diverse ride, blending riverside paths with a challenging mountain ascent.
What to expect on Kim Williams Trail – Deer Creek Sneak Trail loop from Missoula
The journey begins gently on the Kim Williams Trail, a wide, well-maintained path that parallels the Clark Fork River. Here, you'll enjoy picturesque views of the river and Mount Sentinel, with opportunities to spot bald eagles, osprey, and deer among the riparian plant communities. The terrain then shifts dramatically as you transition to the Deer Creek Sneak Trail, where you'll face a mostly gentle rolling climb that includes some steep sections on good condition gravel and doubletrack. This ascent offers views of Woody Mountain and the Mount Jumbo Wildlife Management Area, winding through abundant ponderosa pines in the Pattee Canyon area. This loop is a classic Missoula ride, often used for early-season training, and demands good fitness for its significant elevation gain.
Planning your visit
This popular loop is easily accessible from Missoula, connecting directly to the University of Montana and downtown. While the Kim Williams Trail is generally smooth, be aware that the Deer Creek Sneak Trail can have muddy or icy sections depending on the season, so check conditions before you go. The route is well-trafficked, indicating its popularity, and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing throughout, so keep an eye out for local fauna. It's a great option for a diverse cycling experience, but be prepared for the challenging climb on the mountain section.
Trail details
- Distance: 20.9 miles (33.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 1620 feet (494 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 59 minutes
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