Yellowstone River

The Yellowstone River is one of the major rivers in the United States, flowing through the states of Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota. Originating in the Absaroka Range within Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, it is the principal tributary of the upper Missouri River. 

The river runs for approximately 692 miles (1,114 kilometers), making it the longest free-flowing river in the contiguous United States, as it is unimpeded by dams.

The Yellowstone River begins at the outlet of Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park. From there, it flows northward through the park, plunging over the famous Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a breathtakingly scenic area known for its dramatic cliffs and vivid colors. 

The river then continues north into Montana, passing through Paradise Valley, a fertile region surrounded by towering mountain ranges, and on to the city of Livingston. It eventually converges with the Missouri River in North Dakota.

The Yellowstone River is fed by several significant tributaries, with key contributors on both the left and right. On the left, the Gardner River and Shields River join the Yellowstone, while on the right, it is fed by the Lamar River, Boulder River, Stillwater River, Big Horn River, Tongue River, and Powder River.

The river's watershed is expansive, covering more than 70,000 square miles. It is home to a wide range of ecosystems, supporting diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, bison, elk, and a variety of fish species, notably cutthroat trout, which is native to the river. The Yellowstone River is also a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, rafting, and hiking.

Historically, the river has been significant to various Indigenous tribes, including the Crow, who have lived along its banks for centuries. European exploration of the river began in the early 19th century, with notable explorers such as William Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition traveling its waters. 

The river’s name was derived from the Minnetaree tribe's name "Mi tse a-da-zi," meaning "Rock Yellow River," which French trappers translated to "Roche Jaune," or Yellow Stone. 

Yellowstone River Camping

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular areas for camping along the river. Several campgrounds within the park, such as the Canyon Campground and Fishing Bridge RV Park, offer easy access to the river and nearby attractions like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. These sites provide both tent and RV camping options, and reservations are highly recommended due to the park's popularity.

Outside the national park, numerous campgrounds and dispersed camping areas are available along the river, particularly in Montana. The Paradise Valley area, located between Yellowstone National Park and Livingston, Montana, is a prime location for riverside camping. Campgrounds like Mallard's Rest and Pine Creek offer stunning views of the river, with opportunities for fishing, rafting, and hiking.

For those seeking a more remote experience, the Yellowstone River State Park near Billings, Montana, offers primitive camping along the river. This area is less developed and provides a more rugged camping experience, with opportunities to explore the river’s scenic beauty and wildlife.

Many of these campgrounds provide access to recreational activities such as fly fishing, boating, river rafting, and wildlife viewing. It's important to note that the Yellowstone River is a free-flowing river with no dams along its mainstem, making it one of the last wild rivers in the United States. This contributes to the unique experience of camping along its banks, where you can enjoy the unspoiled landscapes and the sound of the river's flowing waters.

FAQ's

Q. Where is the Yellowstone River?

A. The Yellowstone River is located in the Western United States, flowing through the states of Wyoming, Montana, and a small portion of North Dakota. The river originates in the Absaroka Range in northwestern Wyoming, within Yellowstone National Park, and flows northward through the park, feeding and draining Yellowstone Lake.

Q. Does the Yellowstone River flow North?/What direction does the Yellowstone River flow?

A. Yes, the Yellowstone River flows north. After originating in the Absaroka Range in northwestern Wyoming, within Yellowstone National Park, the river flows northward through the park, passing through Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Upon leaving the park, it continues to flow north through Montana, passing through Paradise Valley and the city of Livingston, before turning eastward and eventually flowing into the Missouri River in North Dakota.

Q. How long is the Yellowstone River?

A. The Yellowstone River is approximately 692 miles (1,114 kilometers) long. It stretches from its source in the Absaroka Range of Wyoming, through Montana, and ultimately flows into the Missouri River in North Dakota.

Q. How deep is the Yellowstone River?

A. The depth of the Yellowstone River varies significantly along its length. In general, the river is relatively shallow compared to many other major rivers, with depths ranging from a few feet in shallow sections to about 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) in deeper pools.

Q. Where does the Yellowstone River start and end?/Where does the Yellowstone River meet the Missouri River?

A. The Yellowstone River starts in the Absaroka Range in northwestern Wyoming, within Yellowstone National Park. It originates from the confluence of the North Fork and South Fork of the Yellowstone River.

The river ends at its confluence with the Missouri River near the town of Buford in North Dakota, just upstream of Lake Sakakawea. This marks the river's termination point as it transitions into the Missouri River system.

Q. Why is Yellowstone River called Yellowstone?

A. The Yellowstone River is believed to have been named after the Minnetaree (Mandan) word mi tse a-da-zi, which means "Yellow Rock River." This name likely referred to the yellow-colored sandstone bluffs along the river’s lower stretches. The name was later translated into French as Roche Jaune, which means "Yellow Rock," and eventually into English as "Yellowstone."

There is also lore that the name was inspired by the yellow-colored rocks along the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. However, the Minnetaree lived primarily in the lower Yellowstone region, and the name may have been applied to describe the broader river rather than just the area within the park. The name reflects the distinctive geological features and the visual impact of the yellow-hued rocks along parts of the river.

Q. What fish are in the Yellowstone River?

A. The Yellowstone River is home to a variety of fish species, which include:

1. Cutthroat Trout: Particularly the native Yellowstone cutthroat trout, which are found throughout the river, especially in the upper reaches within Yellowstone National Park.

2. Rainbow Trout: Common in many sections of the river, including the Paradise Valley stretch and downstream areas.

3. Brown Trout: Found in the lower stretches of the river, particularly in Montana.

4. Mountain Whitefish: Present in some areas, especially in the headwaters and upper reaches.

5. Pallid Sturgeon: Historically native, though now very rare and protected. They were historically found in the Missouri River basin, including the Yellowstone.

Q. What is the Yellowstone River famous for?

A. The Yellowstone River is renowned for several key attributes:

1. Natural Beauty: The river is famous for its stunning natural scenery, including its journey through Yellowstone National Park, where it flows through dramatic landscapes such as the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and features the impressive Yellowstone Falls. The river’s picturesque surroundings attract visitors and outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Historical Significance: The river played a crucial role in the exploration and settlement of the American West. It was an important route for early explorers, including the Lewis and Clark Expedition, and later for pioneers and settlers moving westward.

3. Recreational Opportunities: The Yellowstone River is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fly fishing, rafting, and kayaking. It is known for its excellent trout fishing, particularly for native Yellowstone cutthroat trout and other species.

4. Ecological Importance: The river supports a diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems. It provides critical habitat for fish and other aquatic species and supports riparian habitats along its banks.

5. Cultural and Economic Impact: The river has cultural significance for Native American tribes historically living in the region. It also has economic importance for local communities, especially in the tourism and recreation sectors.

Yellowstone River

Yellowstone River