The best walks and hikes around Helena West Side

The Rodney Ridge Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience right outside Helena, Montana. You'll ascend through open pine forests, then emerge onto a rocky ridgeline that provides sweeping panoramic views of the city and the Elkhorn Mountains. The route then dips back into shaded forest, offering a pleasant mix of sun and shade, with sunny meadows and shady ravines along the way. Look for abundant wildflowers in late spring and common wildlife sightings.

This easy 2.6-mile (4.1 km) loop involves 429 feet (131 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete. The trail is easily accessible from the Rodney Ridge Trailhead in Helena and is a popular shared-use path for hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. It's a great option for a relatively quick outing with a high reward in terms of scenery.

Rodney Ridge is part of the larger Helena South Hills trail system, providing options for longer adventures if you wish to extend your hike. The area is particularly known for its diverse ecosystems, supporting a variety of wildflowers, butterflies, and birdlife, making it a fantastic spot for nature observation during the warmer months.

The Mount Helena via Swaney Trail offers a dynamic and scenic experience, quickly immersing you in a quiet, enchanting forested area. As you ascend, the trail features tight switchbacks and rocky sections, eventually opening up to reveal picturesque Southwesterly Views of the Helena Valley, including the Scratchgravel Hills and the distant Sleeping Giant formation. Keep an eye out for wildflowers and butterflies during spring and early summer, adding to the natural beauty of this popular route.

This easy 1.6 miles (2.5 km) hike packs in 812 feet (247 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 55 minutes to complete. The Swaney Trail is accessible from the Tubbs Trailhead, which can get busy on weekends, so plan an early start if you prefer fewer crowds. It's a great option for a quick, challenging workout or a short adventure with rewarding vistas.

Part of the extensive Mount Helena City Park, this trail is a vital connector within a network boasting over 33 miles of trails. It provides entry and exit points to other significant routes, including the popular Mount Helena Ridge Trail. The park itself is one of the largest city parks in the United States, making the Swaney Trail a convenient gateway to exploring the diverse landscapes and panoramic views of Mount Helena.

The Head Lane Doubletrack offers a brief but pleasant escape into the natural, hilly environment of the Scratchgravel Hills near Helena, Montana. This multi-use path is wider and generally smoother than singletrack, providing an accessible experience for hikers, trail runners, and even snowshoers. It's a quick 0.4-mile (0.6 km) route with an easy difficulty, gaining 148 feet (45 metres) of elevation, making it ideal for a short, refreshing outing.

Planning your visit to the Head Lane Doubletrack is straightforward; no permits are needed, and dogs are welcome, making it a popular choice for pet owners. While the trail is generally accessible, be mindful of seasonal conditions, as you might encounter snow or wet ground depending on the time of year. Parking for the Head Lane Doubletrack trailhead is available, and its short 10-minute estimated duration means you can easily fit it into a busy day.

What sets the Head Lane Doubletrack apart is its versatility as a multi-use trail, accommodating a variety of outdoor enthusiasts beyond just hikers, including gravel bikers and horseback riders. Located within the Scratchgravel Hills, it provides a taste of the region's natural landscape without demanding significant time or effort. This trail is a distinct, shorter option compared to the longer Head Lane Multi Trail in the same area, offering a more moderate physical rating for those seeking a quick, accessible outdoor activity.

The Head Lane to Scratchgravel Hills trail offers a delightful, easy hiking experience with big views of the Helena Valley and the surrounding Big Sky Country. This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) route, with a gentle 274 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, takes you along old jeep roads and doubletrack through open, dry slopes. You can comfortably complete this walk in about 46 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick escape into nature, especially when you want to enjoy expansive vistas and spot native wildflowers.

Accessing the Head Lane to Scratchgravel Hills trails is straightforward, with parking available at the Head Lane trailhead. This area is particularly notable for its year-round accessibility; its well-drained geology means it's often one of the first places to be clear of mud in the spring, offering excellent early-season and winter hiking opportunities. Always remember to bring water, as the open terrain provides little shade.

What makes this area special is its rich history and diverse ecosystem. The Scratchgravel Hills are named for their gold prospecting past, dating back to the 1860s, with old mining roads still integrated into the trail network. Beyond its historical significance, the area is a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot deer, elk, coyotes, and various bird species, adding another layer of enjoyment to your easy hike.