Marias River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Marias River |
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The Marias River
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| Country | Chouteau, Hill, Liberty, Toole, Pondera and Glacier County, Montana |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 48°29′12″N 112°13′41″W / 48.48667°N 112.22806°W |
| River mouth | 2,559 feet (780 m) 47°55′46″N 110°28′21″W / 47.92944°N 110.47250°W |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Missouri River |
The Marias River is a river in the state of Montana, USA. It flows for about 210 miles (338 kilometers) and is a branch of the much larger Missouri River.
The Marias River starts in northwestern Montana, in an area called Glacier County. It forms when two smaller rivers, the Cut Bank Creek and the Two Medicine River, join together. From there, the Marias River flows east, passing through Lake Elwell. This lake was created by the Tiber Dam. After the dam, the river turns southeast. It then meets the Teton River near a town called Loma. Just a short distance later, the Marias River joins the Missouri River.
Contents
History of the Marias River
Early Exploration
The Marias River was first explored in 1805 by the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition. This expedition was a journey across the western United States led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. Some of the explorers initially thought the Marias River was the main part of the Missouri River. However, they soon discovered the amazing Great Falls of the Missouri near Great Falls, Montana, which showed them the true path of the Missouri.
Meriwether Lewis named the river after his cousin, Maria Wood. In 1806, on their way back home, Lewis took a small group of men to explore the Marias River more closely. He wanted to see if the river went north into Canada. During this part of the journey, an unfortunate event happened where Lewis had to defend his group from a young Blackfeet warrior who was trying to steal horses and a gun.
Important Events
The Marias River was also the location of a sad event in 1870, known as the Marias Massacre. This was a conflict that took place in the region.
In more recent history, the Marias River Bridge was recognized as an important historical site in 2012. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places, which lists places important to American history.
Recreation and Conservation
The Marias River is a great place for outdoor activities. From the Tiber Dam all the way to where it meets the Missouri River, it is considered a "Class I river." This means it is open for public use for fun activities like fishing, boating, and other water sports.
The Montana Watershed Coordination Council is a group that works to protect and care for the Marias River and its surrounding areas. They help make sure the river stays healthy for everyone to enjoy.
See also
- In Spanish: Río Marías para niños
