At the Broadwater County Museum (133 N. Walnut, 406/266-5252 1 a.m.–5 p.m. daily May 15–Sept. 15, donations), there are relics of the region’s history, including early mining tools from Confederate Gulch.
Where the Missouri River enters Canyon Ferry Lake just north of Townsend [1] is the Canyon Ferry Wildlife Management Area. A 5,000-acre delta wetland, this is an exceptional place for viewing migrating waterfowl and nesting birds, including ospreys and loons. Beavers and white-tailed deer are also present.
From Townsend, follow Highway 12 east to Harrison Road and turn north one mile.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/montana/butte-helena-and-southwestern-montana/townsend-and-upper-missouri/townsend