Earthquake Lake Visitor Center
Overview
On August 17th, 1959 an earthquake near the Madison River triggered a massive landslide. The slide moved at 100 m.p.h. and in less than 1 minute, over 80 million tons of rock crashed into the narrow canyon, blocking the Madison River and forming Earthquake Lake. This earth-changing event, known as the Hebgen Lake Earthquake, measured 7.5 on the Richter scale. At the time it was the third largest earthquake to occur in the lower 48 states. Twenty-eight people lost their lives in the event. In 1967, the Forest Service's Earthquake Lake Visitor Center opened its doors for the first season of operation. Today the center provides interpretive services for more than 50,000 visitors annually, and this area continues to be of great scientific and general interest. The center provides a panoramic view of the mountain that fell and the lake that was formed. It features exhibits on geology, earthquakes, interpretive talks, and videos. The center is open daily 8:30 am to 6:00 pm from Memorial Day to mid-September. Under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, a small fee is required for the Visitor Center.
Activities
Historic Sites
The center provides interpretive services for more than 50,000 visitors annually, and this area continues to be of great scientific and general interest. It provides a panoramic view of the mountain that fell and the lake that was formed and features exhibits on geology, earthquakes, interpretive talks, and videos.
Seasonality/Weather
The center is open daily 8:30 am to 6:00 pm from Memorial Day to mid-September.
Directions
Driving
The Visitor Center is located 27 miles northwest of West Yellowstone, Montana on Highway 287.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(406) 823-6961Links
- Login or register to post comments
- Email this page
Comments
The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center and the Gallatin National Forest staff announce and extend a warm invitation for all interested visitors to the opening of the 2010 Summer Interpretive Season. Beginning Saturday, June 19, 2010 interpretive activities, and programming including guide walks, talks, short day hikes and a special night presentation will be offered free of charge to all visitors throughout the Madison River Canyon and the 38,000 acre Earthquake area on a weekly basis, weather permitting.