Hiking
There are many areas to explore on the forest that can bring you to historical sites, and help you experience a sense of adventure and wonder. Please contact your local district for site-specific information.
Backpacking
Common backpacking locations include:
- Bob Marshall Wilderness
- Scapegoat Wilderness
- Big Belt Mountains; Gates of the Mountains Wilderness
- Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
General Hiking
There are lots of great spots to get a memorable day hike in on the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest:
Helena Ranger District:
- Ten Mile Creek Environmental Trail
- Trout Creek Canyon
- Refrigerator Canyon
- Willard Creek Trail
- Rodney Ridge Trail
Townsend Ranger District:
- Crow Creek Falls
Lincoln Ranger District:
- Alice Creek
- Webb Lake
Rocky Mountain Ranger District:
- Our Lake
- Willow Creek Trail
Search for Hiking Opportunities
Alice Creek Trail
The Alice Creek Trail is 4.4 miles long. It begins at the north end of Forest Road #293 and terminates at the junction with the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #440.
Alice Creek Trailhead
Site Open
This trailhead provides access to the historic Lewis & Clark Pass and the Scapegoat Wilderness. The 2-mile trail leads to Lewis & Clark Pass and provides a scenic day hike.Â
Arrastra Creek Trailhead
Site Open
This undeveloped facility provides access into the Scapegoat Wilderness. The trailhead is located near Reservoir Lake and adjacent to Forest Road #4106.
Bar Gulch Cabin
Site Open
Located about 5 miles north of Canyon Ferry Reservoir, the Bar Gulch Cabin offers a retreat from the fast pace lifestyle. It is a small, one room cabin with a skylight, 2 bunk beds and a full-sized…
Blackleaf Creek Trail
This 7.5-mile trail carries you through some of the most scenic areas of the Rocky Mountain Front, crossing the famed mountain front and climbing to Blackleaf Pass at almost 7,000 feet.From the…
Calf Creek Cabin
Site Open
Calf Creek Cabin was recently renovated and offers a prime location for fishing, hiking and horseback riding. Running water is not included, but the nearby creek provides fresh water. A hitching rack…
CDNST Trailhead
Site Open
Located on the top of MacDonald Pass near Helena, MT. Spectacular views of surrounding country encompass meadows, timbered slopes, and far away mountains. This trailhead provides access to the…
Continental Divide Trail - Helena Ranger District
The Continental Divide Trail through the Helena Ranger District is 67.5 miles long. It begins at the junction with the CDNST Trail #440 at the District Boundary and ends at the junction with Trails…
Continental Divide Trail - Upper Blackfoot
Popular access to the CDNST is found at the following locations: Rodgers Pass, Flesher Pass, and Stemple Pass. This trail provides spectacular views and a variety of terrain. Mountain bikers, stock…
Crow Creek Trail #109
Located in the Elkhorn Mountains, Crow Creek Trail #109 is the preferred route into Crow Creek Falls. The trail is accessed via the Weasel Creek Road #405. The trailhead is accessible by car…