Cascade, Montana
About Cascade, Montana
As the first major town on the Missouri after the river pushes its way out of the Rocky Mountains, Cascade has many recreational opportunities. Obviously, the Missouri draws most people to the town, and public access points abound. Upstream from Cascade, Eagle Island and Hardy Bridge both offer day use river access. Dearborn fishing access offers limited camping, and Mid-Canon, Mountain Palace, Pelican Point, and Prewett Creek all offer campsites as well as river access. Even though the Missouri is the biggest draw, be sure to check out some of the other attractions around Cascade. Crown Butte Preserve owned by the Nature Conservancy is located halfway between Cascade and Simms and offers a wonderful day hike. One thousand feet above the surrounding northern plains, the top of Crown Butte maintains a natural grasslands ecosystem.
If you prefer history be sure to stop by the Cascade Senior Center and Museum for a taste of local history. Or, visit St. Peter's Mission. Established in 1855 and occupied in 1866 by the Jesuit Fathers, this was the fourth and last site of the mission. The log church was built in 1878. Mother Amadeus of the Ursuline Order established a school for girls here October 30, 1884. The Jesuits withdrew from the Mission in 1897, but the school for boys continued until 1908. The girls' school closed in 1918 when the large stone building erected in 1887 was destroyed by fire.
Lodging, restaurants, bars and shopping can all be found in Cascade.
