Trail Location: Mount Helena

South Sights Loop

From Mount Helena Trailhead, turn left and join Contour Trail via Prospect Shafts. Follow the Dump Out Trail until Hanging Draw, and head up North for about half a mile. Finally, take a turn right on Prospect Shafts and make your way back down to the Trailhead. This loop is most appreciated by those looking […]

Mini Ridge to Emmett’s Loop

This loop begins at Mini Ridge Trailhead, which is located on the west side of Grizzly Gulch Drive and a short drive above the road. It is strongly advised to start with Mini Ridge Trail, not only because it is the easier way up, but also to prevent mountain biking collisions, as both trails are […]

Reeders Trail

From Reeders Village, Reeders Trail is a pretty tough climb to the south part of Mount Helena. The trail drops its users directly on Contour Trail, and is ideal for sightseeing or to join a loop.

South Dump Gulch

With a start at the Dump Gulch Trailhead, South Dump Gulch is one of the many trails leading to Mount Helena Ridge Trail. From the trailhead, make your way up McKelvey Trail, then turn left after less than a half mile on South Dump Gulch. Climb through the trees and enjoy the quiet nature of […]

Mini Ridge Trail

Possibly the most peaceful trail of the area, Mini Ridge Trail starts with a beautifully green and flowery area, before slowly starting to gain elevation and meet a forest. Towards the end of the trail the incline starts to kick in, but it becomes all worth it once you get to the Mount Helena Ridge […]

Emmett’s Trail

Also marked as “E Trail” and named after a long-time PPLT team member, Emmett’s Trail joins Grizzly Gulch Drive to Mount Helena Ridge Trail. It’s strongly advised to use this trail downhill rather than uphill. Emmett’s Trail is a pleasant descent going from gorgeous views of Wakina Sky and Rodney Ridge to a thick and […]

Dump Out Trail

Park at Dump Gulch Trailhead and climb McKelvey Trail to reach Dump Out Trail. Part of the South Sights Loop, Dump Out swings through tall grass and Ponderosa pines. Though a little rocky at times, it is nonetheless a trail that will make its users feel transported into a fairy tale.

Contour Trail

Offering beautiful views of the valley while remaining close to Mount Helena Trailhead, Contour Trail is a short trail known for its connection to Dump Out Trail. Combine these two trails, then hop on Hanging Draw Trail, before going back down on Prospect Shafts for a great loop to travel through the rocky woods of […]

Hogback Trail

The Hogback Trail is a rocky and sunny path between the summit of Mount Helena and Prospect Shafts Trail. The short trail offers splendid views of the entire Helena Valley at the foot of the mountain. At the bottom of the trail, take a turn on Prospect Shafts to reach Mount Helena Trailhead, or on […]

Powerline to Prospect Shafts Connector

This Connector is often used to take a break from Powerline to join the (slightly) more gentle Prospect Shafts, and still make your way to the top, via Hogback. Catch your breath for .2 mile before climbing back up.