The name "Missouri Break" originates from the terminology used by Lewis and Clark, who described this particular stretch of the Missouri River as "broken" land due to its exceptionally rugged and precipitous topography.
The Origin of "Broken Lands"
During their epic journey from 1804 to 1806, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark frequently encountered challenging landscapes. They adopted the term "broken" to characterize any rough or steep elevations they encountered. This descriptive label helped them document the severe nature of the terrain across their vast expedition.
The Missouri River's Unique Challenge
The 149-mile segment of the Wild and Scenic Missouri River now known as the "Missouri Break" stood out even among the many difficult terrains Lewis and Clark navigated. Its topography was considered by them to be the most severe they had ever witnessed, making the descriptor "broken" particularly apt for this formidable area.
This distinct natural formation, characterized by its dramatic bluffs, coulees, and deeply eroded badlands, truly lives up to its historical name, reflecting the challenging conditions that early explorers faced.
For more information on the history of the Lewis and Clark expedition and their journey through the breaks, you can explore resources like Lewis & Clark .org.
