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United States
Montana

Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest

Routes
Hikes
United States
Montana

Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest

Easy hikes and walks in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest

4.6

(13)

156

hikers

52

hikes

Easy hiking trails in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest traverse a diverse landscape of mountains, rivers, and forests across nearly 2.9 million acres. The region features significant natural features, including limestone cliffs, river canyons, and segments of the Continental Divide. Hikers can explore varied terrains, from the Big Snowy Mountains to the Missouri and Blackfoot Rivers. This national forest offers numerous opportunities to experience Montana's natural beauty on foot.

Best easy hiking trails in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest

  • The…

Last updated: July 8, 2026

2

hikers

#1.

Rodney Ridge Loop

4.13km

01:14

130m

130m

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…

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Easy

Embark on an easy 3.2-mile (5.1 km) hike along the Dearborn River Trail, where you'll gain 304 feet (93 metres) in elevation over approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes. The…

Easy
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1

hikers

The River's Edge Trail offers an easy hiking experience along the Missouri River, providing scenic viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and prairies. You will find the path winding through varied…

Easy

3.20km

00:50

20m

40m

This easy 2.0-mile hike along the Missouri River offers scenic views of Hauser Lake, the dam, and rocky cliffs in Helena National Forest.

Easy

2.27km

00:35

10m

10m

Enjoy an easy 1.4-mile hike along the Missouri River in Black Sandy State Park, offering scenic river views and a peaceful outdoor experienc

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Alex
November 6, 2023, Giant Springs State Park

Giant Springs State Park is named after a giant spring, which flows at 156 million gallons per minuet. It was a site of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest?

The Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest offers a wide selection of trails, with 19 routes specifically categorized as easy hikes. In total, there are 48 hiking routes across various difficulty levels within the forest.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest?

Easy hikes in the forest feature diverse terrain, including river valleys, forested paths, and open hills. You'll find trails alongside major waterways like the Missouri and Blackfoot Rivers, and routes that offer views of the surrounding mountains and rock formations, such as those near Devil's Glen.

Are there any easy loop trails in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest?

Yes, there are easy loop trails available. A popular option is the Rodney Ridge Loop, which is 2.5 miles long and offers scenic views of the hills and forest.

What natural features can I see on easy hikes in the forest?

Easy hikes often lead to impressive natural features. For example, the Devil's Glen via Dearborn River Trail follows the Dearborn River and showcases notable rock formations. You can also find trails near lakes, such as the Hauser Hiking Trail, offering lakeside views.

Are there any short, easy walks suitable for a quick outing?

Absolutely. For a shorter, easy walk, consider the River's Edge Trail, which is less than a mile long, or the Missouri River Walk, a 1.4-mile path along the river.

What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the easy hiking trails?

The forest is rich in history and natural beauty. You can find highlights like the Marias Pass Memorial Square: Roosevelt Obelisk, Stevens, which holds historical significance. Portions of the vast Bob Marshall Wilderness are also within the forest, offering a sense of untouched nature.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest?

The easy trails in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic beauty, varied terrain, and accessibility of these routes.

Are there any trails that follow rivers or offer water views?

Yes, many easy trails offer beautiful water views. The Devil's Glen via Dearborn River Trail follows the Dearborn River, and the Missouri River Walk provides pleasant views along the Missouri River. The Hauser Hiking Trail is also located near Hauser Lake.

What is the typical elevation gain on easy hikes in this region?

Easy hikes in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest generally feature minimal elevation gain, making them accessible. For instance, the Missouri River Walk has only about 7 meters of ascent, while the Hauser Hiking Trail involves around 18 meters of climbing.

Can I find trails that are part of larger, more famous routes?

While this guide focuses on easy trails, the Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest does contain segments of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT). Some easy access points or shorter sections might allow you to experience a small part of this iconic route, such as the South Fork Sun - Continental Divide Trail highlight.

What are the best seasons for easy hiking in Helena-Lewis And Clark National Forest?

The best seasons for easy hiking are typically spring, summer, and fall, when trails are clear of snow and temperatures are mild. Summer offers lush greenery, while fall brings vibrant foliage. Always check local conditions, especially in spring when some higher elevation trails might still have snow or be muddy.

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