American Fork (river) facts for kids
The American Fork (also known as the American Fork River) is a river located in Utah County, Utah, United States. It's an important natural feature in the area, flowing from the mountains down to Utah Lake.
Quick facts for kids American Fork |
|
|---|---|
The American Fork near the mouth of American Fork Canyon, March 2007
|
|
 
Location of American Fork River
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | Utah |
| County | Utah |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Unnamed stream flowing through the American Fork Canyon 40°25′54″N 111°38′12″W / 40.43167°N 111.63667°W |
| River mouth | Utah Lake south of American Fork (city) 4,495 feet (1,370 m) 40°20′33″N 111°45′36″W / 40.34250°N 111.76000°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Utah Lake – Jordan River – Great Salt Lake |
Contents
The American Fork River
The American Fork River is a natural waterway in Utah. It flows through Utah County. The river is an important part of the local environment.
Where Does It Start and End?
The river begins in the Wasatch Mountains. This is about 35 miles (56 km) southeast of Salt Lake City. It starts at the mouth of American Fork Canyon.
The actual source is an unnamed stream. This stream flows from an area called Mineral Basin. It travels through the entire American Fork Canyon. Along the way, other smaller streams join it. These are called tributaries. Some of these tributaries include Silver Creek, Deer Creek, and Cattle Creek.
The American Fork River then flows through the northern part of Utah County. Finally, it empties into Utah Lake. This happens on the north shore of the lake.
Why Is It Called "American Fork"?
The city of American Fork gets its name from this river. The word "American" was added to tell it apart from another river. That other river is the Spanish Fork. Both rivers start in the Wasatch Mountains.
Another idea is that the river might have been named after the American Fur Company. This company was active in the area a long time ago.
Fishing in the River
Many people enjoy fishing in the American Fork River. It's a popular spot for fly fishing. Fishermen often try to catch smaller rainbow trout. These fish usually measure about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) long.
Sometimes, they also catch brown trout. The best times to fish are usually in the summer and fall. During other seasons, heavy snowmelt or strong runoff can make it hard to access the river.
