A few weeks ago I traveled to Montana for an annual beer writers conference known as the Beer Now Conference. My wife and I expanded the trip into a “beercation” focused on exploring western Montana. Part 4 of my article about this trip covers exploring Helena through beer. If you haven’t read Parts 1, 2 or 3, then before reading further please click here for Part 1; click here for Part 2; and click here for Part 3.

Driving to HelenaDriving to Helena, we continued to enjoy magnificent views.

Helena

Established in 1864, Helena is the state capital of Montana. Helena started as a gold camp during the Montana gold rush. Originally the camp was named “Last Chance”, but was renamed to Helena in late 1864.

Historic HelenaMiners flocked to “Last Chance” during the Montana gold rush. Photograph courtesy of the University of Montana

Gold made Helena one of the wealthiest cities in the U.S. in the late 19th century. During the mid to late 1800’s, miners extracted over $3.6 billion dollars (in today’s dollars) of gold from within the city limits. By 1888, about 50 millionaires lived in Helena, more per capita than in any city in the world.

Victorian MansionAs a result of Helena’s gold wealth, you’ll find many fine Victorian mansions and homes in the city.

Some of the top things to do in Helena are:

  1. Take a boat tour through the Gates of the Mountains
  2. Visit the Cathedral of St. Helena
  3. Tour the Montana Historical Society Museum
  4. Take a “train” tour of the historic section of Helena
  5. Visit the Montana State Capital Building
  6. Hike Mt. Helena and enjoy the view
  7. Search for treasure at the Montana Blue Jewel Mine
  8. Ride the Great Northern Carousel
  9. Visit Last Chance Gulch
  10. ABOVE ALL, visit one or more of Helena’s 5 craft breweries to recap your day’s adventures
Things to Do VisualEnjoy area activities and then end the day with a relaxing stop at one or more craft breweries.

Helena Craft Breweries

Blackfoot River Brewing Company: Founded in 1998 by three passionate homebrewers and beer aficionados: Brian Smith, Brad Simshaw and Greg Wermers. They typically have about 10 beers on tap. Definitely try their Single Malt IPA, Tartanic Scottish Ale and Double Black Diamond Extreme Stout (Hint: Check to see if any beer is on cask). Be certain to check out the upstairs deck for seating. We shared an outdoor table with the head of the Montana Historical Society Museum and he provided us with lots of useful information about the area.

Blackfoot River BrewingGreat place to meet people

Crooked Furrow Brewing: Started by Montana Natives David McKeever, Nick Diehl and Mick Mondloch. Certainly try the Fast Eddie Coffee Stout, made with Montana grown barley; copious amounts of black, roasted, and coffee kiln malt; and a local cold brew from Florence Coffee Roasters.

Crooked Furrow Brewing CollageBeautiful tasting room

Lewis & Clark Brewing Company: Named 2018 Small Brewing Company and Small Brewing Company Brewer of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival (GABF). The brewery and tap house are located in several buildings – this place is huge! Daily selection of twelve Lewis & Clark craft beers on tap – typically 6 flagship and 6 rotating choices. Try the Miner’s Gold Wheat (GABF Gold Medal), Pompey’s Pilsner (GABF Silver Medal) and Prickly Pear English Pale (GABF Bronze Medal). Certainly, don’t miss the Helena Hazy IPA and Back Country EXPORT Scottish Ale.

Lewis and Clark Brewing in HelenaAbove all, stop here!

Snow Hop Brewery: Opened in 2018. Head Brewer Becky Peppelman is one of the few commercial women brewers in Montana. Be certain to try their Stellar IPA. Beer served in style specific glassware to accentuate each flavor profile. Owners Steve and Barbie Edwards came to Montana from Georgia.

Snow Hop BreweryLocated outside of town but easy to access

Ten Mile Creek Brewery: Founded by three local Montanans – Jordan Keltz, Ethan Kohoutek, and Riley Tubbs. Opened in 2015. Named after the “Ten Mile Creek” watershed, which supplies most of Helena with water. Try their Wood Knocker IPA and Firetower Coffee Porter.

Ten Mile Creek BreweryLocated downtown – has a confectionery next door for those with a sweet tooth

Summary

My wife and I struck craft beer gold while in Helena. And at the same time we managed to learn a little about Montana’s state capital and the area’s history. Meeting friendly locals was easy and they shared some great stories.

Next and Final Stop – Bozeman (and beyond!)

After Helena we proceeded to Bozeman. Will we find new adventures or will we collapse from travel fatigue? Find out by reading my final installment of “Discovering Western Montana Through Beer”.