It is Montana's third largest body of water, covering 35,181 acres (142 km2) and 76 miles (122 km) of shore (1).

It was formed by the building of Canyon Ferry Dam, which was completed in 1954 and has been used for electricity, irrigation, and flood controls since.

The lake is a popular outdoor destination providing boating, fishing, wildlife habitat, and is nestled against the Big Belt Mountains of the Rocky Mountains.

[1][2] The former town of Canton lies beneath the lake, having been submerged following construction of the dam.

Canyon Ferry Reservoir continues to be one of the most popular angling destinations in the state of Montana.