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Dedication of the Missouri River Paddlers Trail 43 on July 18
Author: Carol Hatfield, Broadwater County Trails

Carol Hatfield

Broadwater County Trails

Broadwater County will celebrate a major milestone in its growing trail network on Saturday, July 18, 2026, with the official dedication of the Missouri River Paddlers Trail 43. The ceremony begins at 10:00 a.m. at the Lower Toston Dam Recreation Area and river access site, followed immediately by an inaugural community float down the river.

The new river trail, identified in the Broadwater County Trails Vision Plan completed in November 2025, designates the stretch of the Missouri River from Toston Dam to the Indian Road Day Use and Campground near Townsend as “Missouri River Paddlers Trail 43.” The entire route lies within Broadwater County.

In preparation for the July 18, 2026, Dedication Day, volunteers installed new signs at three access points—Lower Toston Dam, Toston Bridge, and York’s Island—work carried out in partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and the Broadwater County Trails Committee under a Memorandum of Understanding that affirms their shared commitment to maintaining safe, high-quality public recreation areas.

Following the ceremony, participants will launch the inaugural float, an annual stewardship trip during which volunteers and partners will collect trash, assess access-site conditions, and ensure trail signage remains in good repair, continuing the cooperative responsibilities outlined in the county’s agreement with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

This 21-mile river segment is known for its gentle flow, attractive views, and well-developed access points. With four established river access sites, paddlers can float any portion of the trail or enjoy the full length. The route is used by rafters, canoeists, kayakers, tubers, and motorized boaters, making it one of the county’s most versatile recreation assets.

The dedication is timed to coincide with a historic moment: it takes place one week before the annual anniversary of the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s passage through this very stretch of river on August 25, 1805. Broadwater County officials note that the new trail not only enhances recreation but also honors the region’s deep historical significance.

Community members, paddlers, and river enthusiasts are invited to attend the dedication and join the first official float of the Missouri River Paddlers Trail 43, marking a new chapter in Broadwater County’s trail and river stewardship legacy.

We are seeking volunteers who have interests in trails program: Contact Al Christophersen, Trails Committee lead 406-439-0197, John Hahn, BCDC President, 406-202-1050 or Carol Hatfield, Broadwater County Parks, and Recreation Board Chair 406-431-9656.

Follow the Broadwater County Trails activities and events on Facebook and Broadwater County Development Corporation web site: https://www.townsendmt.com .

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PhotoCredit: Broadwater Trails Committee
Image 1 Caption: Broadwater Trails Committee after working at York Island Photo Provided