Sam Braxton National Recreation Trail

Ask around Missoula about where to go biking, and you’re likely hear the name Sam Braxton come up. Braxton was an enthusiastic local biker and skier; he also built sturdy touring bikes with a rare triple-triangle design to support an integrated rear rack. Braxton’s legacy lives on in the Sam Braxton National Recreation Trail, which is just one of the gems in suburban Pattee Canyon. Primarily used by mountain bikers, this 2.5-mile trail starts with a stiff 400-vertical foot climb before lazing into a seriously sweet mellow and non-technical downhill spree. Hikers and dogs also use the trail, as well as some cross-country skiers (the trail is steep and narrow in spots, making it a tough ski outing).