Tower Rock State Park

Had a great time with my grandkids down by the river. Taught them how to skip rocks!!!

Although I wasn't really there to see the sights I kind of got stuck in a broke down motorhome the views and the trails look absolutely amazing and I can't wait to go back and actually walk the trails myself

Enjoyable hiking trail. It's a state park, but there are no signs on the interstate or exit for Tower Rock, which was weird.

Tower Rock State Park is located in Montana, USA, south of Great Falls at the junction of the Great Plains and Rocky Mountains. This splendid state park is often passed by, as people speed on down I-15, but it is certainly worth the stop. There is a hike that takes you close to the top of the namesake of this park with stunning views atop this low mountain. There are extensive vistas of the surrounding plains, mountains and the Missouri River Valley. The area is a diverse mix of grassland, dry forest and semi-arid scrub land that typifies this part of Montana. The geology is interesting with volcanic, tectonic and erosion forces shaping unique and rugged plains, mountains and canyon topography. The landmark is important in history for Native Americans and Lewis and Clark as being the unofficial gateway to the Rocky Mountains along the Missouri River. The hike also hosts interesting vegetation that is typical of the semi-arid high plains and mountain valleys of the region. Drought resistant vegetation in the park of note include Plains Prickly Pear Cacti (Opuntia Polyacantha), Great Plains Yucca (Yucca Glauca), Ponderosa Pine (Pinus Ponderosa) and Rocky Mountain Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca). The summit hike doesn't take too long for a fit hiker, but gets quite steep near the top. The panorama atop this low summit is definitely worth the effort and is a wonderful scenic stop if you are getting tired of a long haul drive along I-15.

The maintained portion of the trail was fabulous. If you go further be sure you have a map from all trails. We couldn't quite figure out the summit, but we had a lovely time. The views are incredible and my 8 and 10 year olds loved it. The pup was exhausted, but he did well, too. Perfect hike near the Missouri River!