River Missouri River

Address , View on Map TripAdvisor Own or manage this business?

Phone 406-538-1900

Overview Service & Activities

About The Missouri River drains one-sixth of the United States and encompasses 529,350 square miles. It flows 2,341 miles from its headwaters at the confluence of the Gallatin, Madison, and Jefferson Rivers in the Rocky Mountains at Three Forks, Montana, to its confluence with the Mississippi River at St. Louis, Missouri. The once meandering river is channelized in the lower third and impounded by six dams in much of the upper. The US Army Corps of Engineers regulates the water flow through the river system for multiple uses. The basin is home to about 10 million people from 28 Native American tribes, 10 states (Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming), and a small part of Canada. The pre-developed Missouri River carried high sediment loads, earning it the nickname ‘Big Muddy.' The Wild and Scenic Missouri River designation is a spectacular Montana valley with striking rock formations and diverse flora and fauna. This river corridor also includes numerous historical and archeological sites. Authorized in October, 1976 with a length of 149 miles covering 131,838 acres. The Wild and Scenic Missouri River stretches 149 miles from Fort Benton to BLM's Kipp Recreation Area north of Grass Range. Visitors enjoy scenic vistas that remain much as first described by Lewis and Clark in 1805. The Missouri River was the major water route to the Rocky Mountain west from the time of Lewis and Clark until the arrival of the railroads in the late 1800's. In addition to its colorful history, the area offers hunting, fishing, and floating opportunities. A small visitor center at Fort Benton supplies historical and recreational information.

Contact

MAILING ADDRESS 920 NE Main Street
Lewistown, MT 59457

CONTACT 406-538-1900

Details

SEASON All Year

SPECIAL DIRECTIONS The Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River begins at Fort Benton located 41 miles northeast of Great Falls on US Highway 87.

SERVICES Maps

ACTIVITIES History Photography Wildlife Viewing