Mount Helena Trail Junction loop from Helena
Mount Helena Trail Junction loop from Helena
4.6
(8754)
17,925
runners
Mount Helena Trail Junction loop from Helena
01:22
10.4km
400m
Running
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Some sure footedness required. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
8.14 km
Mount Helena Trail Junction
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
10.4 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.26 km
3.20 km
1.20 km
405 m
295 m
Surfaces
7.80 km
1.25 km
1.20 km
115 m
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Elevation
Sign up to see more specific route details
Sign up for free
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Sunday 28 June
12°C
8°C
96 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a serious workout with big rewards, the Mount Helena Trail Junction loop from Helena is a difficult jogging route that delivers. This 6.5-mile (10.4 km) loop packs in 1296 feet (395 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 22 minutes, making it perfect for experienced runners seeking a challenging ascent and panoramic views.
What to expect on Mount Helena Trail Junction loop from Helena
As you tackle the challenging ascents, you'll journey through diverse terrain, from shaded ponderosa forests to open sections with rocky outcroppings. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Devil's Kitchen, a cave in the limestone cliffs along the 1906 Trail. The real payoff comes with the outstanding panoramic views of Helena, the Prickly Pear Valley, and the distant Elkhorn and Belt Mountains. Be prepared for rough and rocky sections, especially on trails like Hogback or Prospect Shafts, so sure-footedness and very good fitness are a must for this demanding run.
Planning your visit
Mount Helena City Park, where this loop is located, is easily accessible from Helena. The park offers approximately 14 miles of interconnected trails, and parking is generally available. Dogs are allowed off-leash in certain areas under voice control, making it a great option if you want to bring your canine companion. Consider an early start to enjoy cooler temperatures and clearer views.
Trail details
- Distance: 6.5 miles (10.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 1296 feet (395 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 22 minutes
Comments
Want to know more?
Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.
Sign up for free