Beautiful hike. The view at the top is breathtaking. Took the kids, and dog. Those storm clouds sneak up on you fast though. Check weather report before heading up.
They have several different trail options which all eventually lead to the top. One goes directly up the hill to the top, one winds around a bit but then goes straight up, one is somewhat average elevation gain going by a cave and one winds around a bit more with more switchbacks with a more gradual climb. The view from the top is spectacular. In the off season there are no bathroom facilities. In the summer months there are. The contrast between the rock cliffs and the trees, as winding river valley beyond to the north and west make for some nice photos.
Best way to see the Queen City of the Rockies ! It's an easy walk to the top and the view is magical. It takes 90 minutes and it's free!
This super mountain is used daily by locals; biking, hiking, walking dogs, etc. Tons of different trails, grade, difficulty, length, etc. Fun snowshoeing in the winter-time, cool rocks/caves to explore, outstanding views from all sides of the peak. Pretty sure more Helenan's use this as their main 'gym' than commercial indoor ones. Oh, and please keep dogs on a leash & curb them.
Close to town, great exercise, super view of city, but getting very crowded, parking is a bit crazy on the weekend....but its worth it!
This is not just a casual walk up the hillside. The hike provides great views of the Helena valley and is good exercise for an afternoon jaunt.
Loved this in town location for a quick hike. Exercise outdoors in a convenient location. Parking was a bit of an issue, but I'm from a big city so didn't bother me as much as the locals I was with. What a gem this mountain is.
The entire mountain is a park, transversed by many hiking trails. The view from the top is well worth the extra effort it takes to get to the summit.
There are multiple trails that hikers can utilize. Some offer a pretty good workout. I personally prefer the Prairie Trail, which winds around behind Mt Helena before ascending via switchbacks in a forested area of the mountain. The 1906 trail is nice too, but a little more strenuous to climb. I've seen deer several times while climbing the mountain and the view from the top is fantastic. Definitely recommend it.
I'm up and down Mt. Helena 2-3 times a week on average. In the winter I wear ice spikes or snow shoes. You'll meet people on the more popular trails, but there are lots of less used trails where you can go 3 hours in solitude. When people ask for my health & beauty secret, I point to the mountain and say, "DO IT!" I've gone up with visiting family & friends, co-workers, boyfriends, dogs, kids, business acquaintances, etc., but mostly I go by myself because everyone else is SO SLOW!!!