Blackfoot River to Helmville Mining Road
Gold rush wagon road through Montana mining country.
This forgotten mining road traces the Blackfoot River’s north fork through country that fed Helena’s gold boom in the 1860s. The route climbs past weathered cabins and rusted equipment where hydraulic mining scarred hillsides, crossing Nevada Creek before dropping into Helmville’s scattered ranches. Expect deep ruts through Bear Creek Canyon and a technical rocky section at Flesher Pass where the road narrows to single-track between granite boulders.
Moderate difficulty demands high-clearance 4WD with skid plates — low-hanging differentials get hammered on embedded rocks. Best tackled June through October when snowmelt subsides, though creek crossings can run deep after spring runoff. No permits needed on this mix of Forest Service and private land, but respect gate closures during hunting season. Dispersed camping along Nevada Creek rewards you with trophy trout pools and zero light pollution for serious stargazing.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 34 mi / 54.7 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6200 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Lincoln, Montana |
| Land manager | Helena National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner run this trail without modifications?
A stock high-clearance 4WD handles it fine under normal summer conditions. Lifted rigs are not required, but all-terrain tires are strongly recommended — the dirt surface gets loose and rutted after rain.
When does this trail typically open and close each year?
June through October is the reliable window. Snowmelt can leave the route muddy and impassable into late May, and early October storms can close it fast. Check with Helena National Forest before heading out in shoulder months.
Do I need a permit to drive this trail or camp along it?
No permit is required to drive the trail. Dispersed camping on Helena National Forest land is free and permit-free, but follow Leave No Trace rules and stay at least 200 feet from water sources.
What's the hardest section, and what makes it difficult?
The most demanding stretches come near the water crossings, where banks can be soft and approaches uneven depending on seasonal flow. Nothing technically extreme, but a wrong line into a crossing on a high water year can put you in a bad spot fast — walk crossings before you drive them.
There's zero cell service on this trail — how far is the nearest fuel and what should I plan for?
Lincoln, Montana is your last fuel stop before the trail, roughly the closest town to the start. At 34 miles of backcountry driving, a full tank is sufficient, but carry extra if your rig drinks fuel in low range. Tell someone your plan before you leave — there is no calling for help out here.
Trail track
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