Helena National Forest

Recreational Activities - Trails

Length:
From Resevoir Lake to Wilderness boundary - 4.3 miles

Elevation Change:
828 ft. (252 m)
Trail Beginning: 5772 ft. elevation (1760 m)
Trail Ending: 6600 ft. elevation (2012 m)

Special Features/Attractions & Considerations: This trail begins off the Beaver Creek Road #4106 at an established trailhead with stock facilities. Although the trail initially begins as a road, within 1/8 mile it becomes a blazed trail. The route, which parallels the creek, does have several steep inclines, is rocky but well established. There are no bridges at the two Arrastra Creek crossings so please use caution. Because the trail transitions through talus slopes, avalanche shoots and closed canopied Douglas and Sub-Alpine fir trees, it is a scenic route. There are two meadows that offer excellent picnicking opportunities, with views of the surrounding mountainsides. A short distance prior to the Wilderness Boundary is a small pond that frequently attracts wildlife. Camping is limited. Just before the second creek crossing, the Porcupine Basin Trail #488 intersects with the Arrastra Creek Trail. Trail #488, provides access to Huckleberry Pass. Special caution is recommended in this area regarding bear activity and visitors should keep alert and informed on bear safety.

Arrastra Creek is in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE); Grizzly Bear Recovery Area. Please comply with the Food Storage Special Order LC00-18, and store your attractants and food in a bear resistant manner. A copy of the order is available at the Lincoln Ranger District or on the Helena Forest Website

Locator: Arrastra Mountain
From Lincoln travel west on State Highway 200 turn north on the Beaver Creek Road #4106. You will come to a junction, turn left and follow the Beaver Creek Road northwest approximately nine miles to Reservoir Lake and the signed trailhead. Reservoir Lake is a barren lake; so don't look for any fishing here.

Quad(s): Arrastra Mountain
Helena National Forest Map

For further information contact the Lincoln Ranger District

USDA Forest Service - Helena National Forest
Last Modified: Thursday, 17 May 2007 at 16:18:01 EDT