Valley of Adventure

Townsend is situated in the Missouri River Valley between the Big Belt and Elkhorn Mountains where the Missouri River opens into Canyon Ferry Lake—a popular recreation destination and Montana’s third largest body of water. The area was nicknamed “Valley of Adventure” because of the vast opportunities that are available right out your back door.

Lewis and Clark passed through the Townsend area on the Voyage of Discovery in 1805, although the first white settlers, homesteaders, and Civil War veterans in search of gold did not arrive until the late 1860s. In 1883, a rail stop was established in anticipation of the Northern Pacific Railroad. The town was named after the wife of Charles B. Wright, the president of the Northern Pacific Railroad; her maiden name was Townsend. During this time, a $10,000 hotel was built and plots of land were sold for $5 apiece.

Today, Townsend abounds with recreational opportunities. Its location on the southern tip of Canyon Ferry Lake makes Townsend a mecca for boaters and fisherman all year round. Canyon Ferry provides endless hours of recreation—boating, water skiing, jet skiing, swimming, and fishing. The winter months find the frozen lake dotted with the huts and tents of avid ice fishermen, and the long, hot summers provide the perfect excuse to spend entire days on the water.

The Missouri River borders the town and the Big Belt and Elkhorn Mountains shelter and protect, which has led the area to being called the “Banana Belt” because winter in the valley is often milder than the surrounding area and the rest of Montana. The area around Townsend is prime hunting territory and offers opportunities to hike, camp, ATV, and snowmobile.

The town itself is always bustling with activities and community events. From the annual Fall Fest in October to the Townsend Rodeo in August and the Canyon Ferry Walleye Festival in June, there is always something happening. Visit the Chamber of Commerce for information and maps for self-guided tours through historic mining and scenic areas in the nearby Elkhorn and Big Belt Mountains.

If you are considering purchasing land in or near Townsend, contact the Clearwater Montana Properties office and speak to our real estate agents. They have knowledge of the area and can help you find the piece of property that you've always wanted.