Our flagship ride along the shores of Lake Koocanusa — paved county roads, a stretch of state highway, and Forest Service gravel, plus a walking option on the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail.
The Scramble is a day of riding and walking on some of the most scenic miles in northwest Montana — a benefit for Bike Walk Montana's statewide work.
Lake Koocanusa runs ninety miles down the Kootenai River valley, straddling the Montana–British Columbia line. The routes trace its forested shoreline on a mix of quiet county pavement, a short state-highway segment, and well-graded US Forest Service gravel. Whether you're chasing a long day in the saddle or an easy morning on foot, there's a distance for you.
Every registration supports safer streets, road-safety education, and advocacy for people who walk, bike, and roll across Montana.
Cyclists choose a long or short loop; walkers take a scenic out-and-back on the national scenic trail. All distances start and finish at Abayance Bay Marina.
A big-mileage day down the shoreline and back, linking pavement with long gravel stretches. For riders ready for a proper Montana epic.
A friendlier distance with the same lake views — mostly smooth riding with a taste of gravel. Great for newer tourers and families on capable bikes.
A relaxed out-and-back on the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail, hugging the lakeshore. No bike required — just good shoes and a water bottle.
Exact mileage and turn-by-turn maps are finalized closer to the event and emailed to all registrants.
Check-in opens at 7:00 AM at the marina. Riders roll out at 8:00 AM; walkers can start any time after.
Free parking at Abayance Bay Marina. Carpooling is encouraged — it's a long, beautiful drive in.
Stocked aid stations along the routes plus roving SAG support. Maps and the day's schedule are emailed before the event.
Helmet (required for riders), layers, sun protection, water, and a spare tube. Gravel-capable tires recommended for the long route.
Rexford sits about 10 miles south of Eureka in Montana's far northwest corner. The marina is right off the highway — the rides start and end in its parking lot.
Abayance Bay has campsites on the property — the walking trail runs right through it — and there are more lodging options in and around Eureka. Book early; July fills up.
Lake Koocanusa fills the Kootenai River valley behind Libby Dam, reaching from northwest Montana into British Columbia. Forested ridges drop straight to the water, the traffic is light, and the light goes hazy-blue over the mountains by mid-morning.
It's one of the quietest, most beautiful corners of the state to spend a day on two wheels — or two feet.
Thank you to everyone who rode and walked the lake this year. The Scramble returns in summer 2027 — join our mailing list and you'll be the first to know when the date and registration open.
Questions? Email info@bikewalkmontana.org or call (406) 449-2787.