From DeFord Trailhead, Eagle Scout is a pleasant hike on the west side of Mt Ascension. This trail is a little over a half mile, and is a great way to access the Easy Rider Loop. Eagle Scout Trail switchbacks through pine trees and dappled sunlight.
Goat Trail starts with a small wooden bridge leading to a lovely trail surrounded by nature and quiet. The trail twists and turns through a mature pine forest as it climbs to Wakina Sky Meadow. It’s perfect for hiking, running, and biking. On your way up, keep your ears open for birdsong and watch for […]
From the Mt Helena Trailhead, take the 1906 Trail a quarter mile to reach the Prairie Trail. The Prairie Trail offers a splendid alternation between woods and small meadows, all while displaying views of Mount Helena and the valley. The last half mile is a steep climb to West End and 1906 trails. Retrace your route […]
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 […]
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 […]
Tenmile Creek Park is Prickly Pear Land Trust’s foremost community conservation project. This 180-acre grassland was acquired in 2016 in partnership with Fort Harrison in order to preserve the open space for the community. Tenmile Creek Park provides seasonally-accessible walking paths, a wheelchair charging station, and the only urban access to Tenmile Creek. Visitors can […]
Located in East Helena, Prickly Pear Park transforms the Asarco industrial site to its natural state as a haven for wildlife and people. The park features wetlands along Prickly Pear Creek, grasslands, and a towering cottonwood and aspen grove. It’s visited by beavers, sandhill cranes, moose, bear, and deer. Enjoy a stroll around on two […]
Named after its towering cottonwoods, The Grove bridges East Helena’s history as a smelter town with its future as a thriving community with abundant public access. Accessed from JFK Park, The Grove features over two miles of wide, flat trails in the grasslands adjacent to Prickly Pear Creek. Visitors love the views of Sleeping Giant, […]
