Giant Springs, Natural spring and state park in Great Falls, Montana
Giant Springs is a natural spring in a state park near Great Falls that discharges over 156 million gallons (591 million liters) of water daily while maintaining a constant temperature of 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius) throughout the year. The water flows into a clear pool before feeding directly into the Missouri River, making this location a remarkable natural feature.
The spring was documented by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, with William Clark noting it as the largest fountain he had ever encountered. This early exploration made Giant Springs a notable landmark in the mapping of the American West.
The spring held deep meaning for the Blackfeet people, who relied on it during harsh winters when other water sources froze over. Visitors walking here today can see why this location was so vital to their survival.
The park offers 30 miles (48 kilometers) of connected trails that are part of a larger trail system and accommodate various skill levels. Visitors can hike, bike, or observe wildlife in settings that are easy to access from multiple trailheads.
The spring water travels through the Madison aquifer for approximately 3,000 years underground before emerging at the surface. This long subterranean journey reveals the remarkable geology beneath the landscape.
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