

Best for beginner divers, shore entry, mild current.
Clark's Bay is a freshwater reef site located within the Gates of the Mountains, offering a roped-off sandy beach for easy shore entry. The site features shallow water, making it suitable for beginner snorkellers. Conditions at the site are variable, with mild currents and potential for low visibility. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of the cold water temperatures and the presence of a thermocline, which pose a risk of hypothermia outside of peak summer months. Boat traffic is a known hazard in this area. Facilities available at the site include parking and toilets.
46.68140, -111.82240
Cell phone reception is good at this site.
From Helena take Exit 193 (Cedar Street) from I-15. Travel on Washington Street (past airport entrance) and turn right on Canyon Ferry Road for 1/2 mile, then turn left on York Road for approximately 11 miles through Lakeside until you reach the Clark’s Bay entrance sign.
Expected in this region. No sightings logged here yet.
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Current
Mild
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to its shallow water and shore access.
Yes, Clark's Bay is a designated snorkeling location with a 4/5 rating.
Access to the water is via a shore entry from the roped-off sandy beach.
Hazards include boat traffic, cold water temperatures, low visibility, and the presence of a thermocline.
The best months to visit Clark's Bay in Helena, MT are May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Clark's Bay in Helena, MT typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.