Besides water. The Missouri/Yellowstone confluence–point of joining–is in North Dakota, about four miles east of the Montana state line. What makes this river confluence important enough for this huge, beautiful Visitor Center? Let’s have a look!
First, each river has a unique characteristic that sets it apart from all other rivers in the USA. Second, each played a role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, also called the Corps of Discovery Expedition (1804–1806). We have spent time near each river as it flows through Montana, but now we’ll consider the larger view of their merging.
The Missouri River is the nation’s longest river with its headwaters (source) in the Centennial Mountains, a range in Idaho/Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains. It flows 2,341 miles east then south before entering the Mississippi River in St. Louis, Missouri. This river was also one of the major routes for western expansion through the 19th century.
The Yellowstone River is the last major undammed river in the lower 48. From its headwaters on Yount Peak in the Absaroka Mountains south of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, it flows 671 miles to join the Missouri where we are standing. Yes, it is a north-flowing river.
We visited Missouri Headwaters State Park often when I lived in Bozeman. The confluence of the Madison, Jefferson, and Gallatin Rivers creating the Missouri River. From here the river gently flows northeast before turning east.
We have spent LOTS of time in Yellowstone National Park over the years. Upon refection, talking of confluences, most all the creeks, streams, and rivers flowing through the Park end up in either the Yellowstone River on the Park’s east side or the Madison River on the west side that heads north to the Missouri River (above pic). OK, we can’t talk of rivers without talking of waterfalls, my fave. So many gorgeous falls in Yellowstone. Take a look!
Now to Lewis and Clark. After the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, a select group of US Army and civilian volunteers was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson on May 14, 1804 to explore and detail as much of the new territory as possible. The primary purpose of the expedition was to find water avenues for commerce and establish an American presence that would dissuade European powers attempts to claim territory. Secondary objectives, yet vital, were documenting the West’s topography, geography, biodiversity, and establish positive relationships with the Native American tribes.
On the Expedition’s return trip from the Pacific Ocean via the Columbia River in Oregon/Washington, the Corps split into two teams near the Continental Divide in Montana. Lewis took his team back along the Missouri and explored surrounding areas. Meanwhile, Clark headed south to all new territory exploring the Gallatin River, over Bozeman Pass, then up the Yellowstone River to meet the Lewis team at the Missouri/Yellowstone confluence.
There is so much more to the Lewis and Clark adventure than two short paragraphs. If you are intrigued, this is an excellent resource: Discover Lews & Clark. Dive in and go for it my friend!!
Back to 2026 at the confluence. The Visitor Center has a loop trail offering our first river view.
A small pond formed along the Missouri River. The walk continues east, but so many trees and shrubs! Ah, here’s water. Wait, this looks like a small creek. Where did that come in? Heading uphill a bit, now I’m confused. The Missouri is much larger than the Yellowstone River! What’s up?
Here’s a map, but off to the Visitor Center for some help.
Well, it turns out to be another amazing thing about this particular confluence. Here the Yellowstone River is much larger than the Missouri. Why? Because all along the Missouri dams have been built, reservoirs developed, and small ponds dug. With less water the river narrows for quite a distance before coming to the confluence. The Yellowstone is free flowing and widens as it approaches the confluence.
This narrow creek by the trail IS the Missouri River. It makes a sharp right turn you can see toward upper left of picture. The Yellowstone flows north at the picture’s right and accounts for the bulk of water that becomes the Missouri River heading east.
Would have liked a better view of the waters coming together, but this is the best we can do. The good news? North Dakota has kept this entire area protected state lands and no development allowed. Hooray! I’m fine with this view knowing the land is wild and free!
Until next time my friend . . .
