We had a few hours on a blustery afternoon in Helena and were looking for a nice loop trail. We were told to check out the Mount Ascension Trail Head. There are at least a half dozen trails with multiple levels of challenge and distance. We chose to do the "Easy Rider Loop", a 2.3 mile easy climb through pine, sage, flowers, old mines, and pretty spectacular views of Helena and beyond. It was a great trail, well used by folks with dogs, folks on bikes, and us walking types too.

My wife goes into the South hills year around rarely missing a day! She has done this for the last 14 years. I have begun to accompany her and our Cavalier on these hikes. There are miles and miles of interconnected trails where the views of the area abounds. It is often the case when we see a dear or two and while rare, it is possible to see signs of bear, fox, or mountain lion. The trails are open to bikes and hikers. A true benefit of living in Helena and a real credit to the people of Helena to support open lands with their tax dollars!