National Forest Trail Missouri Beaver Creek Trail

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Website http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/helena/ Phone 406-449-5490

Overview Service & Activities

About This scenic trail follows the water's edge where the Missouri River winds its' way through sheer cliffs. Although the trail grade is generally level there are a few steeper sections under 100 yards long. Please note also a portion of this trail proceeds over rocky terrain. Hikers should stay on the developed trail to avoid the dangers of rolling rocks. The trail provides fishing access and some excellent bird-watching opportunities. Osprey, great blue heron, American white pelican, golden eagle, California and ring-billed gulls and a few species of ducks such as mergansers may be encountered. Mammals are harder to see but hikers may catch a glimpse of beaver, river otter, mountain goat, mule deer, elk or black bear. Hikers occasionally meet rattlesnakes on the trail, so be careful where you step. The trail length is 2.5 miles. The trail begins and ends at the mouth of Beaver Creek T12N, Range 2W, Section 19. Maps to use are the Upper Holter Lake and the Helena National Forest. This trail was once accessible from Hauser Dam; however, as a result of heightened security people can no longer walk across the dam.

Contact

MAILING ADDRESS 2880 Skyway Drive
Helena, MT 59601

CONTACT 406-449-5490

FAX 406-449-5740

Details

SPECIAL DIRECTIONS Take county road 280, otherwise known as York Road. At the York Bar, turn left onto a gravel road and head north about 10 miles to Nelson. At Nelson, turn left heading west toward Beaver Creek to the Missouri River. Although this road is narrow and quite rough, especially between Nelson and the river, a passenger vehicle can usually make the trip and it is well worth the drive.

SERVICES Trail

ACTIVITIES Bird Watching Hiking Nature Area Picnicking Sightseeing Walking Wildlife Viewing