Clarks Fork Yellowstone River facts for kids
The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River is an important river that flows for about 150 miles (241 km). It's a branch, or "tributary," of the much larger Yellowstone River. You can find this river in the states of Montana and Wyoming in the United States.
Quick facts for kids Clarks Fork Yellowstone River |
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| Country | United States |
| State | Montana, Wyoming |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Beartooth Mountains 45°02′33″N 109°53′42″W / 45.04250°N 109.89500°W |
| River mouth | Laurel, Montana 3,241 ft (988 m) 45°39′00″N 108°42′55″W / 45.65000°N 108.71528°W |
| Length | 141 mi (227 km) |
| Type: | Wild |
| Designated: | November 28, 1990 |
Contents
Where Does the River Start and Flow?
The Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River begins in southern Montana. It starts high up in the Beartooth Mountains, which are part of the Gallatin National Forest. This spot is about 4 miles (6 km) northeast of a town called Cooke City. It's also southwest of a tall mountain peak known as Granite Peak.
Journey Through States
From its starting point, the river flows southeast. It enters the Shoshone National Forest in northwest Wyoming. This area is just east of the famous Yellowstone National Park. After flowing through Wyoming, the river turns northeast and goes back into Montana.
Towns Along the Way
As the river continues its journey, it passes by several towns in Montana. These towns include Belfry, Bridger, Fromberg, and Edgar. Finally, the Clarks Fork joins the main Yellowstone River about 2 miles (3 km) southeast of Laurel.
Don't Get Confused: Two Rivers with Similar Names
It's easy to mix up the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River with another river called the Clark Fork River. Even though their names sound very similar, they are two completely different rivers! The Clark Fork River is located in other parts of Montana and Idaho. So, remember, the one we're talking about here is the one that flows into the Yellowstone River.
Images for kids
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Clark Fork Canyon, 1893
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Inner Canyon, 1922
