Trip Planning

Activities & restaurants in the area to make your stay fun & enjoyable.

Please let us know if you have any questions.


Close-up of a fish’s translucent dorsal fin against a warm sunset sky

Fishing Canyon Ferry

Canyon Ferry is home to a variety of fish including large-mouth and small-mouth bass, crappie, walleye, catfish, white bass and lake trout. For fishing conditions, check out Montana Outdoor. Be sure to stay up-to-date with Fishing and Boating Regulations.

Fishing License

A valid fishing license is required for all types of fishing on state waters. To fish in Montana, most anglers need two licenses: a Conservation License and a Fishing License.


A Conservation License is needed before you can buy any fishing or hunting license that Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) issues. Conservation license applicants are required to provide their social security number in addition to the information usually requested. A valid driver's license or a valid photo ID is required to purchase a license.


A fishing license allows a person to fish for and possess any fish or aquatic invertebrate authorized by the state's fishing regulations. It is nontransferable and nonrefundable. The license enables one to fish from March 1 through the end of February of the following year.

Warm-lit dining table with plated salads, glasses, candles, and hands serving food

Restaurants

While Canyon Ferry is known for its natural beauty, the immediate area offers a handful of local restaurants and bars — most with lake views and a relaxed Montana vibe. Here are the closest and most popular options from Goose Bay Marina & Campground.

Dining Around Canyon Ferry

Schooners Bar and Grill:

~8 minutes from Goose Bay

Lakeside dining with excellent views, steaks, burgers, and a casual atmosphere. One of the most popular spots on the lake.


Yacht Basin Bar & Restaurant:

~8–10 minutes from Goose Bay

Family-friendly restaurant and bar right on the water with great breakfasts, American classics, and beautiful lake views.


Highlander Bar & Grill

~12–15 minutes from Goose Bay

Located at the Norwegian Wood Golf Course, this is a popular spot for steaks, American classics, Sunday brunch, and scenic dining with beautiful views.


Big Bull Bar and Grill:

~12–15 minutes (near Townsend) from Goose Bay

A local favorite known for hearty meals, friendly service, and a true Montana bar-and-grill feel.


TB’s Diner (Townsend)

~15–18 minutes from Goose Bay

Classic American diner with breakfast all day, burgers, and comfort food.


Silo’s Inn / Canyon Ferry Lake KOA Grill:

~10–12 minutes from Goose Bay

Convenient option with casual meals and ice cream, located near the KOA.


Note: Canyon Ferry is a more remote reservoir, so dining options are limited. Many visitors also head into Townsend (15–20 minutes) or Helena (35–45 minutes) for more variety.

Brown hiking boots and a camera on a wooden bench outdoors in sunlight

Hiking Trails

Canyon Ferry sits at the edge of the Big Belt Mountains, offering a variety of hiking experiences from easy lakeside walks to more challenging trails with stunning views.

Hiking Around Canyon Ferry

Trout Creek Canyon Trail:

Easy to moderate 3–6 mile out-and-back trail. Features dramatic limestone cliffs, a gentle stream, and interpretive signs along the first mile. Great for families and beginners.


Refrigerator Canyon:

A scenic trail leading into the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. Known for its cool, shaded narrow canyon and impressive rock walls. Popular for day hikes and longer backpacking trips.


Spring Meadow / William Gruber Loop:

Easy 3.5-mile loop at Spring Meadow Lake State Park with minimal elevation gain. A peaceful trail great for birdwatching and relaxed walks near the reservoir.


Mount Helena Trails:

A network of trails with panoramic views overlooking Canyon Ferry and the Helena Valley. Offers options for all skill levels.

Row of rugged off-road ATVs parked indoors, front view with large knobby tires

Off-Roading & ATV Trails

The mountains surrounding Canyon Ferry provide excellent opportunities for off-roading and ATV riding on Forest Service roads and designated trails.

Off-Roading Around Canyon Ferry

Cave Ridge ATV Trail:

A moderate 4–7 mile trail system with scenic views and varied terrain. Popular with ATV and UTV riders.


Birdseye-Mullan Road Area:

Historic routes following old railroad grades with beautiful mountain scenery and several side trails.


Big Belt Mountains Forest Roads:

Numerous roads open to OHV use, offering everything from easy scenic drives to more challenging routes.