If you’re looking for a high-energy or relaxing after-work activity with the kids, pack up the mountain bikes and head out to the trails near Loon Lake east of Bigfork.
An abundance of old logging roads criss-cross one another through a thicket of ponderosa pines, Douglas firs and serviceberry trees, to name just a few.
Relatively flat, wide roads offer a more laid-back ride, while tricky, narrow paths provide plenty of obstacles like roots, rocks and hills for the more adventurous biker.
During the rainy month of June, roads are often sprinkled with large mud puddles, which are fun to blast through or ride around.
While ATV use is not permitted on these roads, don’t be surprised if you come across one or two during your ride.
Nearby Loon Lake is home to a 4-H camp and managed by volunteers.
How to get there: From the town of Bigfork, turn left onto Highway 209. Drive about 3 miles until you see a flashing red light. Turn right at the light, which is Ferndale Drive. Stay on Ferndale for 1.2 miles until you see Loon Lake Road. Turn left and drive .5 miles until you see a trailhead with a large hill on the left. This is a good parking spot. Head down the trails on your left for a variety of routes, or check out the lake by going down the trail to the right, which dead-ends into a gravel road. Turn right, and the road ends at Loon Lake.