Giant Springs State Park springs to life

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Annabel Monroe
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
Montana brings abundant opportunities to explore the great outdoors and areas left untouched by humans. Within the local area, Giant Springs State Park offers plenty of scenery and numerous activities. 

Discovered during the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, the park runs along the Missouri River in the heart of Great Falls. It features one of the United States' largest freshwater springs and the world's shortest river. 

The spring stays 54 degrees throughout the year and pumps more than 156 million gallons of water per day into the rivers. Roe River, coined the "World's Shortest River" by The Guinness Book of Records, is only 201 feet long, but a surprising six to eight feet deep.

For outdoors enthusiasts there are exhibits, heritage and nature tours, photography and bird watching opportunities. There are also binoculars available for checkout at the ranger station.

For athletic outdoorsman, the park offers running and walking trails, hiking trails, bicycling and other opportunities. 

Fishing is also abundant in the area. The park houses a trout hatchery, though fishing in that area is prohibited. Fish food can be purchased for a nickel.

During the month of May they are offering:

Bird Stroll: May 16, 7-9 a.m.
The walk will be led by a member of the local Audubon Club and will be a leisurely stroll starting at the ranger station in hopes of spotting birds.

Kids to the Park Day: May 16, noon-3 p.m.
Stations will be set up to attempt track making, earn Junior Ranger Badge, play games, learn about owls, explore and have fun.

Ranger Talks: May 23, 2-2:45 p.m.
The chat will focus on reptiles and amphibians of Montana.  Learn when, where and how to find critters within the park. All ages are welcome.

June also highlights National Trails Days, June 6, and National Get Outdoors Day, June 13, so ensure to take advantage of one of these celebrations.

The park is free to Montana residents and open year-round from 8 a.m. to sunset. For more information visit: http://stateparks.mt.gov/giant-springs.