Magpie Gulch

Magpie Gulch is an ideal scenic route for beginner offroaders, scenic tourers, and families looking to explore the beautiful Helena National Forest with stunning views of Canyon Ferry Lake. This 7.5-mile point-to-point track connects the Magpie Ridge Trail to the Magpie Creek to Avalanche Creek Trail, offering a gentle climb of approximately 1,779 feet from its lowest point at 5,275 feet up to a peak elevation of 6,929 feet near Hunters Gulch. Rated as a highly accessible level 2 on the technical scale, the trail features a mostly dirt and gravel surface that is suitable for stock four-wheel-drive vehicles, SxSs, and high-clearance SUVs under dry conditions. While generally an easy, relaxing drive, the terrain can become slick, muddy, and challenging following heavy rainfall or during the early spring snowmelt, which may require more careful navigation and proper traction. As drivers wind through the healthy, well-maintained forest east of Canyon Ferry Lake, they can keep an eye out for local wildlife including deer, elk, moose, and black bears that frequently roam this area. The route is steeped in local history, located within a 133,000-acre section of the national forest where several historic 19th-century settlers' cabins still stand as a testament to early pioneers. To access the trail, drivers can take Canyon Ferry Road to Magpie Gulch Road and head east, or alternatively, follow Canyon Ferry Road to Avalanche Gulch Road, proceed east to the junction with Magpie, and turn left. This trail serves as an excellent gateway for longer offroad adventures, seamlessly linking into the broader forest trail network while providing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding valley and Montana's third-largest body of water.