Giant Springs State Park, Montana: One of the Largest Freshwater Springs in the World

My family always enjoys stopping at Giant Springs State Park in Great Falls, Montana.

The park is named for the huge spring discovered in 1805 by the Lewis & Clark expedition. Giant Springs is one of the world's largest freshwater springs, with a daily flow of 338 million gallons of water a day! The crystal-clear spring (above right) is beautiful, as is this entire area.

The spring empties into the Roe River, which runs only 201 feet before flowing into the mighty Missouri River. That makes the Roe the world's shortest river–it's in the Guinness Book of Records.

The 25,000-square-foot Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, which is nearby, is a wonderful museum. Inside you'll find interactive displays, dioramas and videos about the Corps of Discovery's epic journey. It's a must-see!

Great Falls is in central Montana where I-15 and U.S. Highway 87 converge. Located 1 mile east of Highway 87 on River Drive, Giant Springs State Park is open daily. For details call 1-406/454-5840.

The Lewis & Clark Center is open daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through September 30; reduced hours the rest of the year. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for youths ages 6-17. For details call 1-406/727-8733.

To learn more about other area attractions, call the Great Falls Convention & Visitor Bureau at 1-406/761-4434.