Swaney Trail starts at the Tubbs Trailhead and climbs past the Northwest Passage and Ambrose Trail to Prairie Trail. It’s a fairly steep way to ascend the northwest side of Mount Helena. The path goes through an enchanting and quiet forest area, surrounded by vegetation, shade, and the singing of birds.
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 […]
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.
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 […]
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 […]
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 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 […]
From the Mt. Helena Trailhead, explore the northern flank of Helena’s namesake peak by heading west on Prairie Trail and returning on Ambrose Trail. This mostly flat loop features beautiful views of the Helena Valley and the South Hills.
From West Le Grande Cannon Blvd and Silverette St., explore the enchanting and quiet nature of the west side of Mt. Helena. There are many trail options here. For a quick introduction to the area, try hiking Charlies, Andys, O.G.R., and La Petit Pass, before ultimately meeting Le Grande Cannon to return to the trailhead. […]
