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 […]
From Mt Helena Trailhead, follow No Trail for a half mile to the Powerline Trail. Continue to the summit, or save your quads and head back to the trailhead. No Trail is often favored for its less strenuous incline than lower Powerline.
Located on Mount Helena, Mike Cormier Trail connects Prospects Shafts to the Eric Feaver Trail. It descends gradually past the Mt. Helena Trailhead and crosses many other trails as well. Visitors will enjoy an expansive sky and westside views.
The Prickly Pear Trail connects the Beattie Street Trailhead and the Lime Kiln Road Trailhead. Take in views of Mount Ascension, Rodney Ridge, and the Helena Valley as you hike through a pine forest. Shuttle from one trailhead to the other, or hike it as an out-and-back.
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 […]
