By editor
Lewis and Clark County, East of Helena
Lake Helena is a shallow, natural water body connected to the Missouri River system by a narrow channel. Surrounded by agricultural lands and encroaching development, the lake and its associated wetlands remain a vital refuge for waterbirds in the Helena Valley.
The lake's shallow profile makes it highly productive for aquatic vegetation and invertebrates, drawing significant numbers of migrating Tundra Swans in the spring and fall. The marshy edges support breeding populations of Marsh Wrens, Sora, and Virginia Rails, birds that are more often heard than seen. During periods of low water, the exposed shorelines attract a diverse array of shorebirds, including American Avocets and Greater Yellowlegs, which pick their way carefully through the mud.
Visitor Access
The WMA is managed by Montana FWP and is free to enter. Access is primarily from the north and east sides via county roads. There are no developed trails or facilities, and birding is often done from the road shoulders or by carefully walking the public shoreline. The area is heavily used by waterfowl hunters in the fall, so birders should plan their visits accordingly and wear bright colors if visiting during the hunting season.