The Missouri River

The Missouri River is the longest river in North America. It flows for about 2,340 miles across the United States. The river starts in the Rocky Mountains of Montana. It joins the Mississippi River near the city of St. Louis.

Lewis and Clark

The Missouri River became famous because of Lewis and Clark. In 1804, these two explorers traveled up the river to explore the American West. They were sent by President Thomas Jefferson. They met Native American tribes and saw animals like buffalo and grizzly bears. Their trip helped Americans learn about the land west of the Mississippi.

A Muddy Giant

The Missouri River has a nickname, the 'Big Muddy,' because of the dirt and mud in its water. The river flows through ten states on its way to the Mississippi. Big dams along the river make electricity and hold back water. Farms along the Missouri grow corn, wheat, and soybeans. The river is also home to fish, beavers, and many birds.

Fun Facts

• The Missouri River is a little longer than the Mississippi River.
• The name 'Missouri' comes from a Native American word meaning 'people with wooden canoes.'
• The river drops more than 8,000 feet from where it starts to where it ends.

Did You Know?

When the Missouri and Mississippi rivers meet, you can sometimes see a line in the water where the muddy Missouri mixes with the clearer Mississippi.