Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1526858
72 Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce www.greatfallschamber.org E N T E RTA I N M E N T RIVERS EDGE TRAIL Stretching almost 60 miles along both sides of the Missouri River, River's Edge Trail provides the perfect opportunity for walking, hiking, jogging, skating, cycling, and mountain biking. The paved and singletrack trails encompass spectacular views of the mountains, prairies, river canyons, waterfalls, reservoirs, and five hydroelectric dams while also connecting to Great Falls' historic downtown, numerous parks, dining options, and attractions. River's Edge Trail provides the Great Falls community and its visitors a link to outdoor opportunities and the beauty of the surrounding area. Whether you are looking for a place to just get away for a while, ride a bike, run, visit a park, or go fishing, the almost 60 miles of River's Edge Trail is the place to go. Trail highlights include • 18 public art pieces • Panoramic view of Great Falls through a free telescope at the Warden Park Gazebo • Singletrack trails—built to IMBA standards—follow the canyon walls to several of the dams • Up-close views of the five nearby falls of the Missouri • Access to the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center • One of the world's largest freshwater springs and shortest rivers at Giant Springs State Park If you are looking for a printed map of the trail, pick one up at the Great Falls Visitor Information Center, Great Falls Park and Recreation Department, Giant Springs State Park Visitor Center, Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, or at a local bike shop. SLUICE BOXES STATE PARK Lower Trailhead – the first parking lot upon entering the park: The lower portion trails barely have any elevation change, and you can hike to Belt Creek and back and the total distance would be about 3 miles. The entire loop is roughly 8 miles, and you can see our mining history during the hike. And a heads- up, your shoes will most likely get wet since you'll cross Belt Creek roughly four times during your hike. Upper Trailhead – the second parking lot upon entering the park: The upper level trail access connects to the lower portion, or you can turn around before your descent. The upper trailhead takes you to the cliff edge trail, which is true to its name. But don't worry, the path is wide, there are trees that border the most of the edge, and it can be done by every level of adventurer, if they aren't scared of heights! Photo: Marisela Hazzard Photo: Great Falls Montana Tourism