Rivers in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is home to several major rivers, each contributing to the park's rich aquatic ecosystems and scenic landscapes. These rivers play crucial roles in the park's ecology, offering habitats for a variety of wildlife and serving as vital water sources for the surrounding regions. Here's a look at some of the most significant rivers in Yellowstone National Park:

1. Yellowstone River

The Yellowstone River is one of the major rivers in the United States, flowing through Yellowstone National Park and continuing through Montana and North Dakota. It is a significant waterway in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and plays a crucial role in the region's natural environment.

It originates in the Absaroka Range within the park and flows through Yellowstone Lake before carving the stunning Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where it forms the breathtaking Upper and Lower Falls. After exiting the park, it continues through Montana, eventually flowing into North Dakota, where it joins the Missouri River. The total length of the Yellowstone River is approximately 692 miles.

The Yellowstone River is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. The river is home to a variety of trout species, including cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout.

The Yellowstone River and its surrounding habitats support a rich array of wildlife. Visitors may see animals such as bison, elk, moose, and black bears in the river’s riparian zones and adjacent meadows. The river is also important for bird species, including eagles, ospreys, and waterfowl. The varied ecosystems along the river provide essential habitats for many species, making it a key area for wildlife observation.

The Yellowstone River offers opportunities for whitewater rafting and kayaking, particularly in the sections downstream of the park. The river has various rapids and challenging stretches that appeal to adventurous paddlers.

There are several hiking trails along the Yellowstone River that provide access to scenic viewpoints and natural features. Trails often lead to overlooks of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone or along the river’s banks, offering beautiful views and opportunities to explore the area.

There are campgrounds along the river, particularly in the park and nearby areas, providing convenient access to the river and its recreational opportunities.

Yellowstone River

Yellowstone River

2. Lamar River

The Lamar River is a significant and scenic river in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park. Known for its stunning landscapes, excellent fishing, and abundant wildlife, the Lamar River is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore a less-traveled area of the park.

The Lamar River originates in the highlands of the Absaroka Range, near the park’s northeastern boundary. The river has a drainage area of 668 square miles (1,730 square kilometers). It stands as the largest tributary to the Yellowstone River within the park.

It flows westward through the Lamar Valley, a broad and picturesque area known for its expansive meadows and rolling hills. The river eventually joins the Yellowstone River, completing its journey of approximately 44 miles (70 km) within the park.

Key tributaries of the Lamar River include Cache Creek, which joins near the river's headwaters, and Soda Butte Creek and Slough Creek, which contribute closer to the river's mouth.

The Lamar River and its surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. The Lamar Valley is one of the best places in Yellowstone to view bison, and visitors may also see elk, mule deer, and pronghorn antelope in the meadows and along the riverbanks. The river’s riparian zones provide critical habitats for various bird species, including eagles, ospreys, and waterfowl. The area is also known for its wolf populations, and sightings of wolves are relatively common in the Lamar Valley.

The Lamar River was named in honor of Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus Lamar, who served as the Secretary of the Interior under President Grover Cleveland from 1885 to 1888.

Lamar River

Lamar River

3. Gardner River

The Gardner River is a prominent river in Yellowstone National Park, located in the northern part of the park. Known for its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and important ecological role, the Gardner River is a key feature of the park's natural landscape.

The Gardner River originates in the Gallatin Range, on the western edge of Yellowstone National Park. It flows eastward through the park, passing through the scenic Gardiner Canyon and eventually exiting the park near the town of Gardiner, Montana. The river continues to flow into the Yellowstone River. The total length of the Gardner River is approximately 25 miles (40 km) within the park.

The Gardner River is renowned for its picturesque landscapes. The river flows through the rugged Gardiner Canyon, where steep cliffs and rock formations create dramatic scenery.

The Gardner River is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. The river is home to a variety of trout species, including native Yellowstone cutthroat trout and introduced rainbow trout. 

Gardner River

4. Snake River

The Snake River is one of the most important rivers in the western United States, and it plays a significant role in both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Originating in Yellowstone, the river flows through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region before continuing its journey through several states.

The Snake River begins its journey in the Absaroka Range in the southeastern corner of Yellowstone National Park. It flows southward, passing through the southern part of the park before continuing into Grand Teton National Park. In Grand Teton, the river meanders through the valley floor, providing stunning views of the Teton Range.

The Snake River supports a rich diversity of wildlife. The river's riparian zones are home to a variety of animals, including moose, elk, beavers, and numerous bird species such as bald eagles and ospreys. The river's waters are also crucial for fish species, providing habitat and spawning grounds.

Snake River

Snake River

5. Gibbon River

The Gibbon River originates in the Norris Geyser Basin, one of the hottest and most dynamic geothermal areas in Yellowstone. From its source, the river flows southeastward through the park, eventually joining the Firehole River at Madison Junction to form the Madison River. The Gibbon River's course is approximately 25 miles long, flowing through a variety of landscapes, including geyser basins, meadows, and canyons.

The Gibbon River is heavily influenced by the geothermal activity in its headwaters. As the river flows through the Norris Geyser Basin, it receives inputs from hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles, which raise the water temperature and create a unique aquatic environment. This geothermal influence makes the Gibbon River a distinctive feature of Yellowstone, with sections of the river that are warmer than typical mountain streams.

One of the river's most striking features is Gibbon Falls, located along the river's course between Norris Junction and Madison Junction. Gibbon Falls drops approximately 84 feet over a cliff into a narrow canyon, creating a picturesque waterfall that is easily accessible from the road. The falls are a popular stop for visitors, offering excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the river's power.

The Gibbon River supports a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and aquatic species. The river's riparian zones are home to animals such as elk, bison, and beavers, while its waters provide habitat for fish species like brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout. Fishing is a popular activity along the Gibbon River, though anglers should be mindful of the river's geothermal influence, which can affect fish populations and fishing regulations.

Gibbon River

Gibbon River

6. Firehole River

The Firehole River originates in the Madison Lake area of the Yellowstone Plateau. It flows northward for about 21 miles, eventually merging with the Gibbon River at Madison Junction to form the Madison River. Along its course, the Firehole River traverses some of the park's most iconic geothermal areas, including the Upper Geyser Basin, Midway Geyser Basin, and Lower Geyser Basin.

The Firehole River is famously influenced by the geothermal features it passes through. Hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles discharge heated water directly into the river, raising its temperature significantly. In some areas, the river’s temperature can be as much as 30 degrees warmer than a typical mountain stream, with water temperatures often ranging between 50°F (10°C) and 86°F (30°C). This unique thermal influence creates a distinctive environment for aquatic life.

The Firehole River descends through Firehole Canyon, a steep and narrow gorge where it forms Firehole Falls. This 40-foot (12-meter) waterfall is a popular spot for visitors, offering dramatic views of the cascading water against the backdrop of rugged canyon walls. The Firehole Falls area is also known for its scenic swimming holes, where visitors can enjoy a dip in the warm waters of the river during summer.

The Firehole River is a popular destination for both fishing and swimming. The river is home to several species of trout, including brown and rainbow trout, making it a favorite spot for fly fishing. Additionally, the warmer sections of the river, particularly near Firehole Falls, attract swimmers who enjoy the rare opportunity to swim in a naturally heated river. The Firehole Swim Area, located near the falls, is a designated swimming spot where visitors can safely enjoy the warm waters.

Firehole River

7. Madison River

The Madison River forms at the confluence of the Gibbon and Firehole rivers near Madison Junction. It flows westward out of the park into Montana, where it eventually joins the Missouri River. The river’s course is about 183 miles long, with approximately 14 miles of it flowing through Yellowstone.

As the Madison River flows through Yellowstone, it passes through the expansive Madison Valley, a broad, open area surrounded by towering mountains. This valley is a prime spot for wildlife viewing, particularly for spotting elk, bison, and occasionally bears.

The Madison River is one of the most famous trout-fishing rivers in the world. Anglers flock to its waters to catch rainbow trout, brown trout, and the occasional brook trout. The river's relatively warm waters, influenced by geothermal activity from the Firehole River, provide excellent conditions for fly fishing. Several sections of the Madison River within the park are especially popular with fly fishers, who appreciate the river’s clear waters, abundant fish populations, and scenic surroundings.

The Madison River holds a special place in the history of Yellowstone National Park. In 1870, members of the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition camped near the junction of the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers, where they discussed the idea of preserving the area as a national park. This conversation is often credited as one of the key moments leading to the establishment of Yellowstone as the world’s first national park in 1872. A marker at Madison Junction commemorates this important event in the history of conservation.

Madison River

8. Bechler River

The Bechler River originates in the Bechler Meadows in the southwestern corner of Yellowstone National Park, near the park’s boundary with Idaho. It flows southwest through the Bechler region before eventually joining the Fall River, which continues into Idaho. The river’s course is about 30 miles long, and it is one of the least visited areas in Yellowstone due to its remote location.

The Bechler River area is often called "Cascade Corner" because of the numerous waterfalls that grace the river and its tributaries. This region has one of the highest concentrations of waterfalls in the park, making it a paradise for waterfall enthusiasts. The waterfalls range from small cascades to larger falls, creating a scenic and dynamic landscape.

The Bechler region is also home to several natural hot springs, which are popular with hikers and backpackers. These hot springs, including the ones near Dunanda Falls, provide a relaxing way to soak tired muscles after a long day on the trail.

The remote and wild nature of the Bechler River area means that it is rich in wildlife. Visitors might encounter animals such as moose, elk, black bears, and grizzly bears. The river and its meadows also support a variety of smaller mammals, birds, and fish. The region’s relative isolation helps to preserve its natural habitats, making it an important area for wildlife conservation.

Bechler River

9. Lewis River

The Lewis River originates from Lewis Lake, a beautiful body of water located in the southern part of Yellowstone National Park. From Lewis Lake, the river flows northward for about 18 miles before emptying into the Snake River near the southern boundary of the park.

One of the most striking features of the Lewis River is Lewis Falls, a picturesque waterfall located near the South Entrance Road. The falls drop approximately 30 feet over a rocky ledge, creating a beautiful and accessible waterfall that is easily visible from the road. The area around Lewis Falls is popular for picnicking and photography, with the falls framed by lush forests and the river's clear waters.

The Lewis River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for anglers seeking trout. The river's cold, clear waters are home to a variety of trout species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and lake trout. Fishing is popular both in the river and in Lewis Lake, with the area being particularly favored by those looking for a peaceful and scenic fishing experience.

Lewis River

10. Gallatin River

The Gallatin River originates in the northwestern corner of Yellowstone National Park, at the confluence of streams flowing from the Gallatin Range. From its headwaters in the park, the river flows northward through the Gallatin Valley, eventually joining the Madison and Jefferson Rivers near Three Forks, Montana, to form the Missouri River. The Gallatin River’s course spans approximately 120 miles, with its upper reaches within Yellowstone being particularly wild and remote.

One of the most striking sections of the Gallatin River is Gallatin Canyon, located between the towns of Big Sky and Bozeman, Montana. The river winds through this narrow, rugged canyon, flanked by steep cliffs and forested slopes. The canyon is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking, with several sections of the river offering exciting rapids. The scenic beauty of Gallatin Canyon, combined with its recreational opportunities, makes it a highlight of the Gallatin River.

The Gallatin River holds cultural and historical significance for the Indigenous peoples of the region, including the Crow and Shoshone tribes, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The river was later named by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in honor of Albert Gallatin, the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury at the time. The Gallatin Valley, through which the river flows, has a rich history of ranching and agriculture, and today it remains an important part of the region’s economy and heritage.

Gallatin River

11. Heart River

The Heart River is a relatively short river located entirely within Yellowstone National Park, flowing for 4.8 miles (7.7 kilometers). Rising on the Continental Divide in the Rocky Mountains, it starts a few miles southeast of Yellowstone Lake. The river's headwater streams converge into Heart Lake, and from the southeastern end of the lake, the Heart River begins its journey.

As it flows, the river receives additional tributaries from the northeast and then moves southwest through a steep gorge. It continues its course generally southward for about 4 miles (6 kilometers) before it joins the Snake River, near the boundary with the Teton National Forest. The Heart River’s relatively short and steep path makes it a distinctive feature in this portion of Yellowstone National Park.

12. Slough Creek

Slough Creek originates in the high country of the Absaroka Mountains, northeast of Yellowstone National Park. From its source, the creek flows generally eastward through a series of picturesque meadows and valleys before eventually joining the Lamar River. The creek’s course is about 25 miles (40 km) long, with its headwaters starting in the wilderness and flowing through diverse landscapes.

Slough Creek is highly regarded for its excellent fishing opportunities. The creek is home to a healthy population of wild trout, including cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout.

Several hiking trails in the Slough Creek area offer opportunities to explore the creek’s surroundings and enjoy the scenic beauty of the meadows and hills. Trails lead to viewpoints, natural features, and access points along the creek, providing a range of options for outdoor enthusiasts.

Slough Creek

Slough Creek

13. Soda Butte Creek

Soda Butte Creek is a notable tributary of the Lamar River, extending approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) within Yellowstone National Park. It originates just outside the park's northeast corner, on the southern slopes of the Absaroka Range near Cooke City, Montana. The creek is named after a now-extinct geyser, Soda Butte, which was named by A. Bart Henderson, a Cooke City miner, in 1870. The Northeast Entrance Road parallels Soda Butte Creek for its entire length within the park.

The creek is a popular spot for anglers, particularly fly fishermen. It supports a variety of fish species, with brook trout found in its upper reaches and predominantly cutthroat trout, along with a few rainbow trout, in its lower section.

Soda Butte Creek

14. Iron Spring Creek

Iron Spring Creek originates in the highlands of Yellowstone National Park, near the Absaroka Range. The creek flows generally eastward through a mix of forested and open areas before joining larger streams or rivers in the park. The creek’s course is relatively short, winding through rugged and scenic terrain.

Iron Spring Creek