Tower Rock State Park

Tower Rock is a stone formation that rises 424 feet (129 m) above the Missouri River Canyon, marking the entrance to the Adel Mountains Volcanic Field. The structure consists of volcanic rock built atop older sedimentary layers.

The rock formation developed around 75 million years ago through volcanic activity that shaped this region. Captain Meriwether Lewis later recorded this distinctive peak as a significant landmark during the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805.

The Piegan Blackfeet held ceremonies at this rock, treating it as a sacred location for spiritual gatherings. Other tribes passing through the region used the distinctive peak as a navigation landmark during their hunts.

A maintained trail goes about a quarter mile (400 m) to the saddle base with five informational signs along the way. The path is easy to walk and gives good views of the surrounding landscape.

The rock shows evidence of ancient plate collisions that shaped the surrounding mountain ranges in this region. This geological feature makes the formation a striking example of how Earth's forces create dramatic landscapes.

Location: Montana

Website: http://stateparks.mt.gov/tower-rock

GPS coordinates: 47.18889,-111.81000

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:06