A Place That Feels Like Home
Helena Montana Travel Guide to an epic visit in the Queen City of the Rockies.
Montana as a whole is one of my absolute favorite states. The people here are hardworking, down-to-earth, and fiercely proud of their state. What I love most is their welcoming spirit—locals are always eager to share the best hiking trails, scenic spots, hidden lakes, and food recommendations. Every time I visit, it’s like stepping into a place where life moves at the perfect pace, filled with adventure and hospitality.
Helena, Montana’s capital city, has become a second home for me, thanks to my close friend Dustin Glueckert and his family. I find myself visiting Helena at least once a year, and each time, I discover something new about this historic, adventure-filled town.
Hiking & Outdoor Adventures in Helena
Mt. Helena: The Best View in Town
If there’s one place that truly defines Helena for me, it’s Mt. Helena. This local gem, towering at 5,468 feet, offers some of the best hiking trails in the area. I’ve climbed **Mt. Helena in every condition possible—**blazing sun, fresh snowfall, thick mud, and even solid ice (spiked traction required!). No matter the season, it never disappoints.
What makes Mt. Helena so special is the rocky summit. Unlike many hikes that just fade out, this one has a clear “top” where you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the town below. You can see Helena’s historic Cathedral, the entire city, and the Northern Helena Valley stretching endlessly beyond. It’s the perfect sunrise or sunset spot—don’t forget your camera!
🏆 Challenge Yourself: Every year, The Mt Helena Run is a race up and down Mt. Helena that starts in town (register for “Mt. Helena Run” here). I’ve done it myself, and if you’re up for a challenge, I highly recommend signing up!
The Continental Divide Trail
One of the most incredible things about Helena is its proximity to the Continental Divide Trail (CDT)—one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in the U.S. The CDT spans 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada, and Helena is one of the few major trail towns located right along the route. Many hikers stop in Helena for resupply and rest before continuing their trek along the stunning Rocky Mountain ridgelines.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for a challenge, you can hike sections of the CDT from Helena, with access points just a short drive from town. The McDonald Pass area, located about 15 miles west of Helena, is one of the best spots to jump on the trail and experience breathtaking views of the Continental Divide and Helena National Forest.
Broadwater Hot Springs: The Perfect Post-Hike Spot
After a long day of hiking Mt. Helena, there’s no better way to relax than at Broadwater Hot Springs, the Helena Hotsprings. This place is my go-to evening spot in Helena. Imagine sitting in a steaming natural hot spring while enjoying live music, a full-service restaurant/bar, and even an ice-cold plunge pool.
This isn’t just a simple hot spring—it’s a full wellness retreat with:
- Hot and cold pools to refresh tired muscles
- Sauna and steam rooms for deep relaxation
- A gym if you still have energy left
- Great food & drinks right on-site
If you’re visiting Helena, make sure Broadwater Hot Springs Helena is on your list. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.
No Helena Montana travel guide would be complete without emphasizing that this place is awesome and a must-visit!
History & Culture in Helena
Helena’s Gold Rush History & Old Town
Helena was born from the Montana Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. This small mining camp became one of the richest gold strikes in the country, earning it the nickname “The Queen City of the Rockies.”
One of the best ways to experience this history is by exploring Old Town Helena, which sits right at the base of Mt. Helena. The second you step off the trails, you can stroll into historic saloons, old brick storefronts, and vintage architecture that feels straight out of the Wild West.
⏳ Must-Visit Spot: Miller’s Crossing, a cozy bar near the entrance to the Mt. Helena trailhead, is the perfect place to grab a local craft beer after a long hike.
The Cathedral of St. Helena
Helena’s most iconic landmark, the Cathedral of St. Helena, is one of the most stunning Gothic-style churches in the United States. Built in 1908, its twin spires tower 230 feet into the air, making it visible from nearly anywhere in town. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows imported from Germany, intricate marble altars, and an overwhelming sense of history.
The Helena Montana Cathedral is well worth the trip to go say a prayer and take in the beauty in this small town beautiful Cathedral.
The Best Restaurants in Helena Montana
Helena’s food scene is small but mighty, offering everything from steakhouses to authentic ramen & sushi. While there are endless great options, here are my personal favorites where to eat in Helena:
🍜 Helena Hokkaido Ramen & Sushi Bar
My #1 restaurant recommendation in Helena. Located in a modern and updated part of town, this spot serves some of the best ramen and sushi in Montana. It’s always my first stop when I arrive.
🥩 On Broadway
If you’re in the mood for a perfect Montana steak, this classic downtown steakhouse is a must. Great cocktails, great atmosphere, and incredible food. Make a reservation—this place fills up!
🍻 Miller’s Crossing
As mentioned earlier, this is the best post-hike beer spot in town. It’s laid-back, welcoming, and a staple of the Old Town Helena experience.
In my opinion, these are the best restaurants in Helena Montana.
Fun Summer Activity: Rent an E-Bike
Want to cover more ground while enjoying Helena’s scenery? Rent an E-Bike and hit the Prickly Pear Trail System, which is just outside the city. This network of trails allows you to ride through forests, along rivers, and into scenic open meadows. Renting an E-Bike is a great way to explore at your own pace—without wearing yourself out!
Skiing Near Helena: Great Snow, No Crowds
If winter sports are your thing, Helena has two fantastic ski areas within a short drive:
🎿 Great Divide Ski Area – Just 30 minutes north of Helena, this is the closest ski resort and offers 1,600 acres of skiable terrain with a fun, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem in Montana, with affordable lift tickets, excellent tree runs, and terrain parks. Perfect for families and locals looking to hit the slopes without the long lift lines of bigger resorts.
⛷️ Showdown Montana – About 1.5 hours southeast of Helena, this is Montana’s oldest ski area, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience compared to the major resorts in Big Sky or Whitefish. With 1,400 vertical feet and 35+ runs, it’s a great place for intermediate and advanced skiers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy great powder.
Whether you’re hiking along the Continental Divide Trail, skiing fresh powder, or soaking in Montana’s winter beauty, Helena is the perfect home base for year-round adventure!
Need Outdoor Gear? Stop by The Base Camp
If you need gear for skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, or biking, head to The Base Camp. This locally-owned outdoor store has everything from high-end backpacks to rental gear for those who don’t want to pack bulky equipment.
Stop by to pick up your local Montana hat or shirt!
Travel Tips: How to Get to Helena
Helena is a small but well-connected city that’s easy to reach.
✈️ Flying In: Helena Regional Airport (HLN) offers direct flights from Denver, Salt Lake City, Seattle, and Minneapolis.
🚗 Driving: Helena is about:
- 1.5 hours from Bozeman
- 2 hours from Missoula
- 1 hour from Great Falls
Best Time to Visit Helena Montana
Helena, Montana, offers something special in every season, whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or a cozy retreat. However, the weather varies drastically throughout the year, and knowing what to expect will help you plan the perfect trip.
🌱 Spring (March-May): The Season of Renewal
As the snow melts and wildflowers start to bloom, spring is one of the best times to visit for hiking and biking. Temperatures gradually rise from highs in the 40s°F (4-9°C) in March to mid-60s°F (15-18°C) by May, with cool mornings and occasional spring showers. The trails on Mt. Helena start drying out, making it a great time to explore before the summer crowds arrive.
☀️ Summer (June-August): Outdoor Adventure at Its Peak
Summer in Helena is all about the outdoors—hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, and even renting e-bikes to explore scenic trails. Expect daytime highs in the 80s°F (27-30°C) and lows in the 50s°F (10-14°C), making it perfect for long days outside. The city comes alive with festivals, live music, and events, and if you’re up for a day trip, there are great lakes and rivers nearby for kayaking or paddleboarding.
🍂 Fall (September-November): Crisp Air and Golden Aspens
Autumn in Helena is a photographer’s dream—brilliant golden aspen trees, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists. September still feels like summer with highs in the 70s°F (21-25°C), but by November, temperatures dip to the 40s°F (4-9°C) during the day and freezing at night. It’s a perfect time for hiking, scenic drives, and enjoying the peaceful beauty of the season.
❄️ Winter (December-February): A Snowy Wonderland
Montana winters are no joke, and Helena is no exception. If you love snowshoeing, skiing, and cozying up at Broadwater Hot Springs, this is your season. Expect daytime highs in the 20s-30s°F (-7 to -1°C) and nighttime lows dipping well below zero°F (-18 to -25°C). The city sees an average snowfall of 40 inches per year, but higher elevations in the nearby mountains receive much more, making it great for cross-country skiing, backcountry adventures, and even ice fishing.
No matter the season, Helena has something incredible to offer—just pack accordingly and prepare for the adventure! 🚀
Final Thoughts: Why Helena Holds a Special Place in My Heart
Helena, Montana, is one of those rare places that offers both adventure and relaxation. Whether I’m hiking Mt. Helena, soaking at Broadwater Hot Springs, or just grabbing sushi at Hokkaido, this town always makes me feel at home.
After my many visits, I can confidently say Helena is one of the best-kept secrets in the Rockies. If you’re looking for a place that combines history, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm, this is it.
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