Roe River

The Roe River, which runs between the Missouri River and Giant Springs near Great Falls, Montana, is recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the shortest river in the world. Officially it is only 201 feet (61 meters) long.

The campaign to get the Roe River recognized originated from students at Lincoln Elementary School in Great Falls, Montana. Students Molly A. Petersen and future NFL football player Dallas Neil put in an appearance on the Tonight Show as part of this effort.

Oregon's D River also has a claim as the shortest river in the world. However in practice the length of both rivers can vary substantially, and to date the Roe River remains the official record-holder.

The Roe River is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's shortest river. The source of the Roe River, Giant Springs, is the largest freshwater spring in the United States. The longest river in the state is the Missouri River. The Missouri flows 1,029 miles, from Three Forks to the North Dakota border.

Ironically, the source of the Roe River, the Great Springs, is the "Largest Fresh Water Springs in the United States." The water stays at a temperature of 54 degrees, and has been carbon dated to be about 3,000 years old.

A Walk Along River Roe