Meatloaf Hill is the perfect short hike to catch stunning views of the city and mountains, especially during sunrise and sunset. It’s also a very popular dog-walking destination. Many trails of various steepness and distance crisscross the hill, making it suitable for all abilities. Meatloaf Hill is located in the South Broadway neighborhood. Many roads […]
This notoriously steep and rocky trailhead offers neighborhood access to Mt. Ascension Natural Park. From S. Davis Street, just south of Pine St., head east on the dirt road. The trail climbs for a half mile and offers views of the Helena Valley. For a longer journey, take a turn on the Easy Rider Trail, […]
The Easy Rider Loop starts at the Beattie St. Trailhead. To access the loop, ascend the Prickly Pear Trail to Easy Rider. From there, travel clockwise on Easy Rider and Archery Range, and return to the trailhead on the Pay Dirt Trail. This moderate and scenic loop explores the north flank of Mount Ascension and […]
The 2.4-mile Entertainment Trail offers a challenging and rewarding climb from the Old Shooting Range Trailhead to the summit of Mount Ascension. The climb features tight switchbacks, moderate sections through fairytale-like forests, and two rocky summits. From the top, admire the natural and urban sights as you take in Lewis and Clark and Jefferson counties. […]
Explore the west flank of Mt. Ascension on this intermediate adventure. From the DeFord Trailhead, head south along Davis Gulch on the DeFord Trail. Just past the Old Shooting Range Trailhead, climb Entertainment Trail to Archery Range. The steep switchbacks give way to a rolling singletrack. At the flat intersection known as Porcupine Flats, turn […]
From Lime Kiln Road, the Bompart Hill Loop will take you on a round-the-hill journey amongst wildflowers, pine trees, and views of Helena. This is an excellent intermediate adventure for hikers, runners, and bikers. Prickly Pear Trail is steep and rocky, requiring frequent dismounts for many bikers
The Waterline Trail offers a mostly flat hike, run, or ride with a few rolling sections. From downtown Helena, head south on Oro Fino Gulch Road to the Waterline Trailhead. After a short climb, the trail parallels the road for two miles. It’s an enjoyable out-and-back, or you can connect to other trails to explore […]
The Barking Dog Trail is a local favorite for its playful singletrack and rich history. There’s a small parking area on Orofino Gulch Road north of the meadow where a barking dog once stood guard. The trail climbs through shaded ravines, Ponderosa pines, and Douglas firs. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of old mining […]
The Show Me the Horse Trail was discovered by Helena’s mountain bikers in the 90s. The original trail ran through a horse corral. The trail’s name is a combination of the famous “Show me the money!” phrase from Jerry Maguire and the local livestock. From the trailhead, climb 1.5 miles to Mount Helena Ridge and […]
From the Dump Gulch Trailhead, climb the McKelvey Trail to the spectacular Helena Ridge. After soaking in the well-deserved views, loop back to the trailhead along West End, Backside Trail, Prospect Shafts, Hanging Draw, and McKelvey. In mid-May, the Backside Loop features an impressive Arrowleaf Balsamroot bloom. Note: at the intersection between Hanging Draw and […]
