Soda Butte Creek

NPS / Jacob W. Frank

Quick Facts

Location:

Northeast Area

Amenities

1 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Soda Butte Creek is located near the park boundary, approximately 5 miles (8 km) downstream of the former location of the McLaren Mine. It joins the Lamar River it flows across the northern range to the outflow of Yellowstone Lake.

As a result of metal contamination from previous mining activity, dissolved and total metals (arsenic, copper, iron, and selenium) persist in the floodplain.

Yellowstone’s streams, rivers, and lakes are influenced by season, elevation, and precipitation. Some waters are also affected by the park’s geothermal features, generally resulting in warmer temperatures and higher dissolved ion concentrations.

Headwaters

Yellowstone waters provide essential moisture to much of the American West and water resources provide recreational opportunities, plant and wildlife habitat, and scenic vistas.

The Yellowstone River continues north and east through Montana and joins the Missouri River just across the North Dakota state line.

Restoration of the Creek

State and federal agencies completed an effort to relocate mine tailings away from the floodplain and to reconstruct the former channel in 2014.

Results from monitoring activities in Soda Butte Creek downstream of the reclamation work show that iron levels associated with the former mining site have been dramatically reduced.

In addition, a collaboration between state and federal agencies is underway to further evaluate the contributions of metals from other tributaries in the Soda Butte Creek drainage.

Animals are Dangerous

• Do not approach or feed any animal.
• Bison and elk have injured people.
• Stay 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves.
• Stay 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals.

You are responsible for your safety.

Think Safety, Act Safely. Yellowstone is a Dangerous Place.