Seven miles in length altogether, the section of trail on the south side of the river follows the path of the old Milwaukee Road railway tracks. Along the trail are 10 bronze historical markers mounted on concrete plinths which relate various aspects of the history of the area one is passing through while on the trail.
The trail passes through or near seven parks, a demonstration garden, a skatepark, a carousel and several murals and sculptures.
Ron MacDonald served as a board member of the
Missoula Redevelopment Agency for over twenty
years. During that time he was an untiring advocate
for the development of riverfront parks and trails. His
vision and advocacy on behalf of the public's interest
in the riverfront is manifest in this trail system which
bears his name.
From the Ron MacDonald Memorial Plaque
Coordinates given are at the Ron MacDonald Memorial in Caras Park on the north side of the river, just west of Higgins Avenue.
HISTORIC MISSOULA ALONG THE RIVERFRONT
Much of Missoula's history is connected to transportation. The valley and its main river served as a corridor for game and later, humans. Native Americans crossed through the valley on the way to hunt bison east of the continental divide. As white settlers arrived, many of the original trails turned into roads, and eventually, highways. Railroads often paralleled these roads, and bridges were built to traverse the rivers.
These historic markers follow what was at one time the main line of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railroad, and describe much of the physical and cultural history of the Missoula Valley. The Millstone Display on the north side of the river is in close proximity to what was the Mullan Military Road and signifies the beginning of commercial Missoula. Enjoy Missoula's history and the physical beauty of the surrounding mountains and valleys!
From Missoula Parks