Mount Helena Ridge and Show-Me-The-Horse Loop

The trailheads for this loop are conveniently located close to downtown Helena. You can find parking options near the various access points to the Mount Helena trail system.

Yes, during the summer, a free shuttle service known as the "Trail Rider" is available. It transports riders to the upper Mount Helena Ridge trailhead, allowing you to enjoy a point-to-point ride back to town and skip the initial climb.

Yes, the Mount Helena Ridge trail system is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's a multi-use trail, please ensure your dog is under control and follow any local leash regulations.

The best time to ride this loop is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the trails are dry and free of snow. Summer offers the convenience of the shuttle service.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access and ride the trails within the Mount Helena Ridge and South Hills trail network.

The Helena Ridge section is primarily singletrack. The initial 1.5 miles involve a climb of about 600 feet and can be quite rocky. After this, the trail becomes smoother with roller-coaster-like downhill sections, traversing meadows and forests. The Show-Me-The-Horse Trail is known for its fast, flowy downhill with bermed corners and small drops, starting in open meadows and transitioning into dense woods.

This route is generally rated as Intermediate to Upper-Intermediate. While some sections are smoother, the initial rocky climb on Mount Helena Ridge requires good fitness and bike handling skills. The Show-Me-The-Horse descent is fun but also requires some skill. Beginners might find parts challenging.

You'll be treated to great views of the Helena Valley in both directions, especially from the Helena Ridge. The trail moves through pine stands and open grassy hillsides, offering amazing panoramic vistas. The Show-Me-The-Horse portion also begins in open meadows with scenic transitions through different forest types.

Yes, the route is part of the extensive South Hills network. It incorporates sections of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, Mt Helena Ridge Trail, and Show-Me-The-Horse Trail. It also connects to other paths like Mini Ridge Trail, Wakina Sky Trail, Emmett's Trail, and the Emmett-Mini Ridge Connector, allowing for customized rides.

The Mount Helena Ridge is a multi-use trail, shared with hikers, horses, and trail runners. Always be aware of other users, practice trail etiquette, and yield appropriately. As part of an IMBA Silver Level Ride Center, responsible riding is encouraged to maintain the quality of the trails.

This loop is considered the centerpiece of Helena's South Hills trail system. It's known for its variety, from the challenging climb and scenic ridge of Helena Ridge to the celebrated flowy downhill of Show-Me-The-Horse, which is Helena's most popular descent. The availability of a summer shuttle service is also a key feature.