Discover the Untamed Beauty of Gates of the Mountains Wilderness
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Gates of the Mountains Wilderness, a true gem in Montana's natural beauty.
Nestled near Helena, Montana, the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this stunning preserve is a must-visit destination.
A brief summary to Gates of the Mountains Wilderness
- Helena, Montana, 59602, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited amenities in the wilderness area.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for the trails, as some areas can be rocky and uneven.
- Check weather conditions before your visit and dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Getting There
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Car
From any location in The Cabinet Mountains, navigate to US Highway 200. Head southeast on US-200 towards Helena. Continue on US-200 for approximately 80 miles until you reach Helena. Once in Helena, take the exit toward I-15 N. Merge onto I-15 N and drive for about 10 miles. Take the exit for MT-12 E and follow for about 5 miles until you reach the entrance to Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. Look for signs indicating the parking area.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, first take a local bus service to Helena. Once in Helena, you can catch a taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to reach the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. The distance from downtown Helena to the wilderness is about 10 miles, so the taxi ride will likely cost between $15 to $25 depending on the traffic and time of day.
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Hiking/Walking
If you’re already near the wilderness area and prefer to walk, ensure you have a detailed map of the area. From the nearest parking area, follow the marked trails leading into the wilderness. The primary trailhead is well-marked, and you can find additional maps at the visitor centers in Helena or online before your trip.
Discover more about Gates of the Mountains Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
(Closed until May 2025) The Montana Blue Jewel Mine
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Helena Montana Temple
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Midtowne Historic District
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Kindrick Field
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Hardy Bridge
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Helena Civic Center
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Last Chance Tours
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city county building
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Last Chance Gulch
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U.S.S. Helena Memorial
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Visit Helena Montana
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Confederate Gulch
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Upper Blackfoot Historical
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gates of the Mountains
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Montana Military Museum
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Montana Nugget Casino
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Essential places to dine
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Copperline Smashburger!
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The Retreat Kitchen & Bar
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Shellie's Country Cafe
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Motherlode Sports Bar, Restaurant, & Casino
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Dinners Done Right- Helena
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Staggering Ox
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Brewhouse
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Leslie's Hallmark Shop
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Target
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T.J. Maxx
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Mae & June Vintage Market
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Big Sky Thrift Store
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The Jesters Bar
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