Helena National Forest

Recreational Activities - Trails

Length: 5.83 miles (9.4 km)

Elevation Change: 1360 ft. (415 m)
Trail Beginning: 4520 ft. elevation (1378 m) at Vigilante Campground
Trail Ending: 5880 ft. elevation (1793 m

Special Features/Attractions & Considerations: This National Recreation Trail is one of the most unique and spectacular trails in the Helena area. Hikers will want to take plenty of water on this hike. There is an elevation gain of approximately 1400 feet in the first 3 miles to trail junction #248. Then an additional 440 feet before the trail starts its’ descent to the scenic overlook.

At several locations along the trail, there are opportunities to enjoy outstanding scenic views. The ten switchbacks located near the end of the trail guide you down 1,000 feet to a moist valley of giant Douglas fir trees and towering limestone cliffs. As you continue down the valley, the canyon narrows and the maintained trail ends. At this point only those in extremely good physical condition should proceed the last 100 yards down the steep path to the scenic overlook. The final 100 yards contains several steep (3-4 foot) drops through crevasses in the rock wall.

Hanging Valley formed when the main river cut a lower bed or channel faster than a side stream leaving the side stream ‘hanging’ high above it. There are different types of vegetation in this moist valley (including lichen) and cliffs and spires as the valley widens.

Locator: Big Belt Mountains
Take county road 280 (otherwise know as York Road) to York. Continue approximately 7 miles past York to Vigilante campground. Proceed to the back of the campground to access the trail; a sign shows where the trail begins in a heavily timbered draw at the northeast side of the campground.

Quad(s): Hogback Mountain, Snedaker Basin
Helena National Forest Map

For further information contact the Helena Ranger District

USDA Forest Service - Helena National Forest
Last Modified: Thursday, 17 May 2007 at 16:17:50 EDT