Broadwater: Landscapes, History and Experiences

The 50-acre Crimson Bluffs rock formation rises above the Missouri River and was described in Meriwether Lewis’s journal on July 24, 1805. Preserved as an important public landmark, it will be protected for future generations. In Broadwater, the landscape therefore meets a tangible connection to the history of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Water, Wildlife and Golf

Canyon Ferry Wildlife Management Area lies just north of Townsend, where the Missouri River flows into Canyon Ferry Reservoir. It 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. Trapping is permitted with a license.

Canyon Ferry Reservoir covers 33,500 acres of water and has 96 miles of shoreline. Fishing for trout, salmon, bass and walleye is available year-round at Canyon Ferry Lake. This means fishing can be planned without being tied to a single season.

Old Baldy Golf Course is a 9-hole course with three different sets of tees. Tee times are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The two activities therefore differ considerably when planning your day: fishing is available year-round, while tee times for golf depend on order of arrival.

History, Collections and Craftsmanship

The Crimson Bluffs tour map covers 43 miles and identifies 19 road markers. Road conditions can change, so take current conditions into account when planning.

The Broadwater County Museum and Library features exhibits on mining, a settlers’ log cabin, a general store, a blacksmith shop, fossils, Lewis and Clark, and military history. The subject matter therefore ranges from working and settlement history to natural history and the region’s expeditions.

Canton Church was built in 1875–1876 by the first settlers in Canton Valley, who belonged to different faiths. The building thus represents a local settlement history in which different religious traditions were represented.

Goose Bay Handblown Glass, a studio for decorative glass and custom-made blown-glass work, is located in Townsend. Jim and Terry Gundersen opened the studio in 2002. This craft adds a contemporary local art form to the area’s historical themes.

Trails, Water Access and Seasonal Events

West of Radersburg, the Crow Creek Trail follows the creek for 3.5 miles to a waterfall. Trail conditions may vary; take this into account when planning your trip.

Toston Dam Recreation Site has seven campsites, picnic tables, grills, a boat ramp, a parking area and restrooms. York’s Islands Fishing Access Site, south of Townsend on the Missouri River, also has campsites and restrooms. The 22-acre site also offers a boat launch, picnic tables and fishing access; a small fee applies. Fees and conditions may change, so check them before your visit.

The Townsend Fair & Rodeo takes place on the first full weekend in August. Activities begin on Thursday and end on Sunday afternoon; the exact dates vary from year to year. So check the dates for your intended year of travel. The seasonal Townsend Farmers Market typically offers locally grown fruit and vegetables, as well as baked goods. It also offers the opportunity to speak directly with the producers. Offerings and operating details vary seasonally.

Discover more destinations: Townsend, Phillips County, Carbon County, Yellowstone, Powder River County, Wibaux County, Big Horn County, Dawson County.

For the main travel overview: Montana.