Crystal Creek

Crystal creek road goes from Turah, east of Missoula, to Deer creek. Done as a loop, less than half is on dirt, and there is minimal elevation gain, making this a great easy/beginner route or something you can do quickly after work. Usually I like to go out to Turah on pavement and then back on the dirt, but this can be done any way you want. From Turah on the south side of the interstate, cross the river, and turn right on Crystal Creek road.

Crystal Creek road itself is only about 5 miles long. From the end of the road, you have the option of climbing deer creek road (or the sneak) and descending pattee canyon, or returning along the kim williams trail. The railroad has fenced off and signed the section along the shooting range as no trespassing, so you now need to go down deer creek road, past the golf course, and on the new path under the interstate and train bridges next to the river.

Crystal creek itself is fairly narrow and rocky, so skinny road tires are generally not recommended. It also has the nickname "crystal meth creek" due to some of the residences along the way, so maybe bring a friend.

Here's a gpx track of the route

And here's a strava ride