Earthquake Lake: Formed by the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake in Montana

Q: Is it worth the drive if I’m not a geology buff?

Yes: the dramatic formation is an immediate demonstration of tectonic forces, and the overlook and interpretive signs make the science accessible for any visitor.

Q: Is the area accessible for someone with limited mobility?

The visitor center and some nearby paths are accessible.

Q: Is there a fee to view Earthquake Lake?

Entry to the viewing areas is free; fees, if any, apply to specific tours or facilities at the Visitor Center.

Overview

About This Attraction

Turquoise water runs along a six-mile-long lake, set against a broad landslide scar on Sheep Mountain. The lake formed when a massive rock avalanche dammed the Madison River during the 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake. It stands as a stark, real-world example of tectonic forces reshaping the landscape in moments.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (late May–mid-September) when the Earthquake Lake Visitor Center is open and roads are clear; sunrise and sunset yield the best light.

Visitor Tips

Look for the broad landslide scar along Sheep Mountain from the visitor center overlooks.
The Madison River water is bitterly cold—dress in layers and be prepared for wind.
Bear spray is recommended in this wildlife-rich area.
Stay on designated paths and overlooks; rockfall remains a risk near the scar.
Parking can fill on peak days; plan accordingly.

Details

Location & Features

GPS: 44°49′51″N 111°25′32″W

Nearby

Nearby Attractions:

Earthquake Lake Visitor Center; Highway 287 overlooks; West Yellowstone; Madison River

Insider Tips

Visit the Visitor Center for safe overlooks;
Check the auto tour route interpretive signs;
Bring warm layers;
Parking can be tight in peak season

Visitor Information

Accessibility:

Visitor Center and some paths accessible

Family Friendly:

Overlooks; keep children away from edges; wildlife safety

Nearby Facilities:

Earthquake Lake Visitor Center with restrooms, potable water, interpretive signs; pull-outs and overlooks along Highway 287

FAQs

Do I really need to arrive before 7am to get parking?

Parking can fill on peak summer days; arriving early helps secure a spot at the Earthquake Lake Visitor Center.

Is it worth the drive if I’m not a geology buff?

Is the area accessible for someone with limited mobility?

Is bear spray recommended here?

Is there a fee to view Earthquake Lake?

📖 wanderlog.com 📖 wikipedia.org 📖 destinationyellowstone.com 📖 yellowstone.org 📖 craniumcorporation.org 📖 nationalparkstraveler.org 📖 yellowstoneclubhouseinn.com 📖 damsafety.org 📖 visit-bozeman.com 📖 arizona.edu 📖 westyellowstonenet.com 📖 visitmt.com 📖 tripexpress.org 📖 youtube.com 📖 usda.gov 📖 backroadtoyellowstone.com 📖 thebrutallyhonesttraveler.com 📖 visitmt.com 📖 gibbonmeadows.com 📖 forestservicemuseum.org 📖 usgs.gov 📖 southwestmt.com 📖 Current time information in Madison County, US. 📖 yellowstonepark.com 📖 getlostinamerica.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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