macdonald pass

Sort of unavoidable if you're heading to Missoula - but it is a really beautiful drive with a very nice overlook. Saw a car overheating on the way up (it was August), but you should probably not take a car that tends to overheat up and down mountain passes as a general rule.

I like to travel over MacDonald Pass when I can. It allows for a view high up above other places around the pass. One time when I went to the observation place up on top, I could hear the eagles calling below where I was as they were soaring through the air. It is a good place to take a sack lunch and just enjoy the view of the mountains around you.

Just 14 miles west of Helena, MacDonald Pass provides an ascent to the top of the Continental Divide and on to the Pacific Ocean (if you go far enough. - Too bad Lewis & Clark didn't know that! On the return trip, though, heading into Helena from the west, as you pass over the Divide and into the valley, the views from the top as you descend are breathtaking!

The view driving over this pass was spectacular. Thankfully this was October and there was no snow. At 6400 feet it could be daunting in winter conditions.

Th elevation of the pass is 6325 feet and be careful as I missed the turn to the parking area for the pass. You do get a great view and can see for long distances. The road to the summit is very rough. IT would be easier with a four wheel drive unless the state fixes the driveway soon.

I did not have time to hike the trails, but I drove over the pass and back to Helena. The view from the MacDonald Vista point was awesome. If you have an hour for the drive, it's worth it. I'll go back up when I can do some of the hiking. One warning, if you make the drive all the way to the top be prepared for a very rough road.

Great place for cross country skiers of all abilities. The local club grooms the trails and they are well marked

Macdonald Pass is just plain beautiful. I have been there in the spring and summer and loved it each time. Make sure you bring your camera as the shots are awesome from the top of the pass. There is a small path that you can take for a hike that is good for those of us who typically do not hike.

Gorgeous drive and we played in some snow! We stopped at the natural spring fountain and had a drink-how refreshing!

If you drive this pass when the snow flies, be very cautious. Roads are rarely cleared and ice builds up quickly. During summer months, it is kind of a beautiful drive. Lots of steep cliffs and general forest views, but nothing breathtaking.

Drop your fears on the low ground. Take in all the high lights and the sights to behold, and definitely do not forget your camera. Even on cloudy or snowy days, this drive will get you out of your vehicle with a "Kodak moment" around each bend. Drive safely.

Another beautiful ride in the Montana mountains. Be sure to stop at the pull 0ff for a breathtaking view of the city of Helena.

December through February, the Last Chance Nordic Ski Club grooms cross country ski trails at the site of the old Frontier Town just east of the pass itself. It's a nice variety of easy and intermediate trails, never crowded. Some nice downhill runs, etc. Although technically free, the club always appreciates a donation (donation box at the trailhead) to help defray grooming costs. And only 19 miles from Helena.

If your going through in the Summer time or dry time your going to be in heaven. If you try to make it through on a very rainy day or winter day your going to find some problems with visibility and serious winds.

As a first timer to the State, why not visit everything you can?