Yankton, South Dakota

Yankton is a city located in Yankton County, South Dakota. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 13,528. It is the county seat of Yankton County{{GR|6}}. Yankton was the original capital of Dakota Territory.

Related Topics:
Yankton County, South Dakota - 2000 - County seat - Dakota Territory

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The city is known locally as River City and the Key City. Its southern edge sits on the banks of the Missouri River. The city is situated just below Gavins Point Dam, a federally run electric turbine dam. The dam created Lewis and Clark Lake, named for the famous Lewis and Clark expedition which traveled through this area. The lake is roughly 20 miles long by 1 mile wide and provides vast recreation opportunities. Most of the recreation areas are run by the Federal Government Army Corps of Engineers. They are clean and well run, with excellent camping, hiking and bike trails. A marina is also available on the north side of the lake near the dam.

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One exceptional attraction for hikers is the Smutty Bear Trail area which leads to Gavins Point. Gavins Point is a lookout high above the deep waters of Lewis and Clark Lake. It's terrific for day hikes, late night romantic hikes and picnics. The most fascinating event of the year is to watch the ice flows by moonlight in the early spring as the lake thaws. The campground is officially closed at this time of year so admission is free.

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Yankton is the home of Mount Marty College.

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Yankton was once home to Yankton College; founded in 1881, it was the first liberal arts college in the United States west of the Mississippi River. More recently famous for having been the alma mater of NFL football star Lyle Alzado, the college closed in 1984, and a federal prison was opened at the site of the former college in 1988.

Related Topics:
Yankton College - 1881 - Liberal arts - United States - Mississippi River - NFL - Football - Lyle Alzado - 1984 - Prison - 1988

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Former NBC News anchorman Tom Brokaw is a long-time resident of Yankton.

Related Topics:
NBC News - Anchorman - Tom Brokaw

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