Fun Ways to Experience Fall in Helena
By Chelsea Paschall
It’s easy to fall in love with Helena in the autumn. Enjoy the playful delight of pumpkin patches, corn mazes, hayrides, golden canopies, spooky excitement, harvest activities and yummy treats. Let your imagination tease out ghost stories in one of Helena’s numerous historical neighborhoods, then enjoy fall colors at nearby attractions, drives and trails.
Explore a Ghost Town – In a region established by mining, there remains fascinating structures that are a testament to the haunting boom-and-bust history of the area.
Head up to Marysville which is a still-occupied ghost town at the base of Helena ski hill Great Divide. After appreciating the historical structures and one of the most Halloween-decorated homes in the region, swing by Marysville House for delicious dinner.
Only a half hour drive from Helena is the town of Boulder, home to the historic Boulder Hotel and Hot Springs. The building has a long-storied history that is apparent as soon as you pull up. Go for a day dip at the springs, but warning, you’ll be tempted to stay. The rooms are thematic and include a delicious breakfast.
A short drive from Boulder is the Elkhorn Ghost Town, home to multiple intact structures and a cemetery that traces the history of those who lived and died there during its silver-mining boom.
Enjoy the Colorful Outdoors – Head in any direction and you’ll be treated to some stunning fall colors.
Open up to wonder by hiking or biking at one of our nearby trails.
Cast your reel at an enticing fishing spot.
Enjoy the twist and turns of scenic drives close by.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze – Each destination offers specials on the weekends leading up to Halloween, check their websites and social media.
Edgewater Farms Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch – Love of agriculture and fun on the farm inspired the creators of Edgewater Farms to make a place for kids of ALL ages to play.
Applestem Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch – See a sheep farm transformed into a harvest season spectacle. Along with farm animals, Applestem has a multitude of entertaining attractions to explore.
Johnson’s Pumpkin Patch – There are lots of surprises here to flavor memories with family and friends. Johnson’s Farm Market also has fresh vegetables, jams & syrups, and baked goods including seasonal favorite, caramel apples. Last weekend is October 7th & 8th.
Seeking more events? Check out our Top Ten Fall Events in Helena 2023 | Visit Helena, Montana (helenamt.com)