Apple River (Illinois) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Apple River |
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The confluence of the South Fork Apple River and the Apple River within Apple River Canyon State Park
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| Country | United States |
| State | Illinois, Wisconsin |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | East of Shullsburg, Lafayette County, Wisconsin 42°33′51″N 90°09′47″W / 42.56417°N 90.16306°W |
| River mouth | Mississippi River Northwest of Savanna, Carroll County, Illinois 42°10′35″N 90°14′36″W / 42.17639°N 90.24333°W |
| Length | 55 mi (89 km) |
The Apple River is a river in the United States. It flows for about 55 miles (88 km). This river is a tributary of the mighty Mississippi River. It starts in Lafayette County, Wisconsin. Most of its journey is through Illinois, crossing Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties.
Along its path, the Apple River flows through Apple River Canyon State Park. It also passes near the town of Hanover. Finally, it joins the Mississippi River about 7 miles (11 km) northwest of Savanna. In Jo Daviess County, two smaller streams join it. These are called the West Fork Apple River and the South Fork Apple River.
Where Did the Name Come From?
The Apple River got its name from the many crabapple trees. These trees grew along its banks a long time ago. Some people tell a different story. They say the river was named after a German person named Appel. This person supposedly fell near the river during the Black Hawk War. However, the crabapple tree story is the more accepted reason for its name.
How the Land Was Formed
The Apple River flows through a special area called the Driftless Area of Illinois. This region is unique because it was not covered by ice. The last Ice Age glaciers missed this spot. Glaciers usually flatten hills and fill valleys. But this area was left untouched by the ice.
During the Ice Age, the Apple River's direction changed. It used to flow towards the Pecatonica River. Now, it flows southwest to the Mississippi River. This change created a deep canyon. Part of this amazing canyon is protected within Apple River Canyon State Park.
