And just like that, fall has arrived with its familiar chill and golden charm. We’ve pulled out our sweaters, brushed off the last of summer, and are ready to settle into the season. Fall in Helena feels different, vibrant, cozy, and impossible not to savor. The air is crisp and the leaves glow in shades of gold and crimson. Whether it’s a hike, a ride through the trails, or a visit to the pumpkin patch with a warm latte in hand, Helena in the fall has a rhythm all its own. See below for our favorite ways to fall in Helena.
Pumpkin Patch
Fall has arrived, and that means Edgewater Farms is back with its annual Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze, running through October 25th. Gather your family and friends and head to Townsend for a classic autumn adventure. Along with the pumpkin patch and corn maze, you’ll find plenty of seasonal fun, including hayrides, a giant slide, a straw bale castle, and endless fall photo ops. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a fall treat, some wood fired pizza or BBQ while you are there. Edgewater Farms is open Fridays from 4 to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., so mark your calendar and make a day of it. Children under 3 get in free, and admission for everyone else is $12. See you at the farm!
Learn more: https://www.edgewaterfarmsmt.com/
Applestem Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch is also open this season from now until October 25th. There is a 10 acre corn maze and other activities that are perfect for anyone and everyone. This is located right outside of Craig, MT; between Helena and Great Falls. They will be open Friday from 5pm-9pm, Saturday from 1pm-9pm and Sunday from 1pm-6pm. Along with the corn maze and pumpkin patch, there will be hay jump, cow train and more games to enjoy. 4 and younger are free and admission for everyone else is $11.
Learn more: https://www.applestemcornmaze.com/
Fall Coffee & Bakery Must Haves
Nothing says “fall” quite like savoring a seasonal treat—whether it’s a rosemary brown butter latte from Montago or a freshly baked pastry from Park Ave, it’s the perfect way to welcome the season! Stop by local favorites like Park Avenue Bakery, Vanilla Bean, or Montago for a cozy indulgence, or brave the crisp morning air to snag something from Cotton-Top Pastries on Friday or Saturday—before they sell out! Enjoying a fall-inspired drink or treat not only embraces the season, but also supports Helena’s cherished local businesses.
Visit:
https://www.parkavenuebakery.net/
https://vanillabeanhelena.com/
https://www.montagocoffee.com/
https://www.cottontoppastries.com/
Scenic Drive or Walk through the Mansion District
Fall in Helena’s neighborhoods is a serene and picturesque experience. Take a leisurely stroll or scenic drive through the historic Mansion District on the west side, where vibrant autumn leaves fill the streets with a golden glow. It’s the perfect way to soak in the season’s beauty and charm while admiring the deep-rooted history that makes Helena so special.
Visit a Brewery
No fall weekend in Helena is complete without a stop at a local brewery. Step out of your comfort zone and try a festive, seasonal ale while soaking in the crisp autumn air. Helena is home to several great spots, including Headwaters Crafthouse, Mt. Ascension Brewing, Blackfoot River Brewing Co., Lewis & Clark Brewing Co., Ten Mile Creek Brewery, and more! Gather a few friends, share some laughs, and raise a glass to the season.
Vist: https://headwaterscrafthouse.com/
https://www.mtascensionbrewing.com/
https://blackfootriverbrewing.com/tap-room/
https://www.lewisandclarkbrewing.com/
https://www.tenmilecreekbrewing.com/
Hiking and Mountain Biking
With cooler temperatures settling in, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of prime trail season and explore Helena’s 150+ miles of trails before winter arrives. Both Mount Helena and Mount Ascension offer incredible opportunities for hiking and mountain biking, whether you’re heading out solo or with friends. The 1906 Trail to the summit of Mount Helena is a local favorite for its well-maintained, easy-to-follow path, while the surrounding loops offer ideal conditions for mountain bikers this time of year. Get outside and soak up the crisp fall air while it lasts.
Learn more get familiar with the trails by using Prickly Pear’s interactive trail map: https://pricklypearlt.org/trails/
Thanks for visiting our blog! Whether you’re sipping a seasonal drink from your favorite spot, hiking the trails, or wandering through the mansion district, there are endless ways to soak up the season. We’d love to hear how you’re falling for Helena.
