Queen City of the Rockies

Nestled in the foothills of the Rockies and located between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park lies Montana’s capital city of Helena. Known as the “Queen City of the Rockies,” Helena is a vibrant city defined by its rich historical past and promising future.

The Past and the Present

Like many other towns in Montana, Helena began as a mining town. In 1864, four prospectors (called the Four Georgians) struck it rich when they discovered gold in a gulch that later became known as Last Chance Gulch. The influx of miners quickly transformed Helena from an empty gulch to a bustling city. At one time, it was even rumored to be home to some 50 millionaires.

Today, Helena boasts a vibrant cultural center, busy event calendar, eclectic shopping, art galleries, historical sites, microbreweries, and an epic trail system. There is something for everyone. History buffs will delight in discovering hidden remnants from the past scattered throughout the city. A ride aboard Helena’s Last Chance Tour Train delivers a fun and scenic journey through Helena’s colorful past. Marvel at the 230-foot spires of the Cathedral of St. Helena. Take in the Victorian and Queen Anne style homes in Helena’s Upper Westside “Mansion District,” and cruise by the charming and restored miners’ village of Reeder’s Alley. The Montana Historical Society also offers a treasure trove of historical artifacts, photographs, and documents.

The Great Outdoors

Helena is also a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Just a few miles away, the Missouri River flows through Holter Lake, Hauser Reservoir, and Canyon Ferry Reservoir. All are perfect for fishing, boating, wakeboarding, kayaking, and more. With its peak at 5,468 feet above sea level, Mount Helena City Park towers over the city and offers over 80 miles of trails to explore on bike or by foot. Designated a ride center by the International Mountain Biking Association, Helena offers visitors a world-class mountain biking or hiking experience. Snow lovers can also chase endless blue-bird days on the slopes at Great Divide Ski Area—a short 25-mile drive from town and offering 107 trails across its 1,600 acres.

Downtown: The Heart of Helena

The true heart of the Helena community, however, lies in its downtown area. This area features the state’s only downtown, outdoor walking mall which gives residents and visitors alike a unique way to experience the history and shopping in the area. Downtown Helena features over 500 businesses, including custom art galleries, one-of-a-kind apparel stores, unique gift shops, sporting goods stores, an old-fashioned chocolate shop and soda fountain, microbreweries, fine and casual dining, and entertainment venues.

Perhaps most significantly, Downtown Helena is a place for the community to gather. During the winter months, art walks, holiday strolls, and the Parade of Lights bring a warmth to the snow-covered area. In the summer, the Alive at Five weekly concert series brings people together for food, music, and fun. Saturday mornings are bustling times downtown as vendors serve up fresh produce and artisan crafts at the Helena Farmer’s Market—Montana’s longest-running market.