Nestled in the heart of the Big Belt Mountains lies Vigilante Campground. About an hour east of Helena, and across the Missouri from the Gates of the Mountains, the campground is the only one within this section of the Helena National Forest
The rent and twisted bands of the surrounding cliffs spoke to the geologic forces at work.
We set out on a lively and energetic 14 mile loop, up into the wilderness. The first 4 miles was all uphill and was pretty tough-going.
Several breaks were needed on this intense climb!
Headed for the pass.
The downhill portion of the trek featured a traverse through rolling, high mountain meadows. That’s Vigilante Gulch (our path back to the trailer) in the background, carved by Trout Creek.
Our track through the Wilderness.
