A 50-acre rock formation above the Missouri River gives Broadwater a distinctive historical connection: Crimson Bluffs is described in Meriwether Lewis’s journal entry for July 24, 1805. The cliffs are being preserved as an important public landmark for future generations. The Crimson Bluffs tour map also offers practical guidance: it covers 43 miles and marks 19 roads.
Water and Wildlife Habitat
Canyon Ferry Reservoir covers 33,500 acres of water and has 96 miles of shoreline. Rainbow trout, salmon, bass, and walleye can be fished year-round at Canyon Ferry Lake. Just north of Townsend, the Canyon Ferry Wildlife Management Area is located where the Missouri River flows into Canyon Ferry Reservoir. The area covers about 5,920 acres and provides habitat for waterfowl, pheasants, other upland birds, white-tailed deer, and elk. Public opportunities include big game, waterfowl, and upland bird hunting, as well as birdwatching; a permit is required for trapping.
History and Craft
Goose Bay Handblown Glass in Townsend is a studio for decorative glass and custom-made, hand-blown glass pieces. Jim and Terry Gundersen opened it in 2002. Hand-blown glass and decorative works offer a different focus from the historic memorial sites; the studio connects craftsmanship with the town’s name.
Exhibits at the Broadwater County Museum and Library range from mining and a settlers’ log cabin to a general store, blacksmith shop, fossils, Lewis and Clark, and military history. The topics shift from the daily lives of early settlers to natural discoveries and regional history. Canton Church was built in 1875–1876 by the first settlers in Montana’s Canton Valley, who belonged to different faiths. Its origins reflect the religious diversity of this early group of settlers.
Outdoor Activities
West of Radersburg, the Crow Creek Trail follows the creek for 3.5 miles to a waterfall. Trail conditions can vary, so check them before your visit. Old Baldy Golf Course is a 9-hole course with three different sets of tees. Tee times are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Toston Dam Recreation Site has seven campsites, picnic tables, grills, a boat launch, a parking area, and restrooms. York’s Islands Fishing Access Site sits on 22 acres along the Missouri River south of Townsend. For a small fee, amenities there include a boat dock, picnic tables, fishing access, campsites, and restrooms. Fees and conditions may change; check these details before your visit.
Seasonal Guide
Townsend Fair & Rodeo takes place on the first full weekend in August: activities begin on Thursday and end Sunday afternoon. Exact dates vary from year to year, so check the dates for the year of your trip. The Townsend Farmers Market typically offers locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, and opportunities to talk directly with the producers. The market schedule and operating details may vary by season.
Discover more destinations: Lincoln County, Stillwater County, Roosevelt County, Big Horn County, Beaverhead County, Flathead, Treasure County.
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