Difficulties: Difficult

Rent Money Trail

Rent Money Trail is a steep and technical section of the Rodney Ridge Trail. It was named by longtime PPLT trailbuilder Emmett Purcell for the rent money he earned while building it. To enjoy views of the South Hills for a bit longer, keep going on Rodney Ridge Trail to reach the Top of the […]

Prospect Shafts Trail

Starting at Mt Helena Trailhead, Prospect Shafts Trail is a strenuous path to reach the summit. The mostly rocky trail is quite steep, but offers splendid views of Wakina Sky and the whole Helena Valley. Finish the climb to the very top on the Hogback Trail.

McKelvey Trail

From Dump Gulch Trailhead, climb McKelvey Trail straight to the Helena Ridge, reachable in no time thanks to the efficient incline the trail has to offer. From the junction with West End Trail, continue on West End and the 1906 Trail to reach the Mt Helena summit.

Hanging Draw Trail

To reach Hanging Draw Trail, park at Dump Gulch Trailhead and hike a quarter-mile up McKelvey Trail. Hanging Draw climbs the south side of Mount Helena to Prospect Shafts Trail, through open trees and cliff bands.

Swaney Trail

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.

Seven Sisters Trail

On the northwest side or aspect of Mount Helena, from the Le Grande Cannon Trail, Seven Sisters Trail climbs gradually past La Petit Pass and Old Chevy Trail to Andys Trail. The trail offers quiet as it winds through the trees. 

Prairie Trail

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 […]

No Trail

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.

Little Moab Trail

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, […]

Entertainment Trail

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. […]