Missouri River Quiz
Explore the Missouri River’s geography: source, confluences, basin states, dams, cities, and its length (10 questions).
Missouri River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Missouri River, often called the “Big Muddy,” is the longest river in North America, flowing over 2,341 miles from its source in the Rocky Mountains to its confluence with the Mississippi River. This vital waterway has shaped the geography, history, and economy of the central United States, serving as a critical route for exploration, trade, and agricultural development.
Originates in the Rocky Mountains of southwestern Montana, specifically at Brower’s Spring near Three Forks, Montana.
Its largest tributary is the Yellowstone River. It famously merges with the Mississippi River north of St. Louis, Missouri.
The river basin covers parts of 10 U.S. states, including Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, and Missouri.
Features major dams like Fort Peck and Oahe Dam (forming Lake Oahe). Key cities include Kansas City, Omaha, and Bismarck.
Key Takeaways
- The Missouri River is the longest river in North America, flowing approximately 2,341 miles.
- Its source is in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, and it joins the Mississippi River near St. Louis.
- The river basin is a crucial agricultural region, supporting vast farmlands and livestock.
- It played a pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States, notably for the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
- Major dams along its course, such as Fort Peck and Oahe, provide flood control, hydropower, and irrigation.
- The river’s nickname, “Big Muddy,” refers to the significant amount of silt and sediment it carries.
- It influences the climate and ecology of a vast part of the central United States.
Where does the Missouri River originate?
The Missouri River originates in the Rocky Mountains of southwestern Montana. Its official source is Brower’s Spring, located in the Centennial Mountains, which then flows into the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers forming the Missouri near Three Forks.
How long is the Missouri River?
The Missouri River is approximately 2,341 miles (3,767 kilometers) long, making it the longest river in North America. When combined with the lower Mississippi River, the Missouri-Mississippi River system ranks as the fourth-longest river system in the world.
Which states are in the Missouri River Basin?
The Missouri River Basin encompasses parts of ten U.S. states: Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado, Kansas, Iowa, Minnesota, and Missouri. It drains about one-sixth of the entire United States.
What is the largest dam on the Missouri River?
The largest dam on the Missouri River by reservoir volume is the Fort Peck Dam in northeastern Montana. It is one of the largest hydraulically filled dams in the world and forms Fort Peck Lake, the fifth-largest man-made lake globally.
What is the historical significance of the Missouri River?
Historically, the Missouri River was a vital transportation route for Native American tribes and later for European explorers and traders, most famously the Lewis and Clark Expedition. It played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States, serving as a primary artery for trade and settlement.
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