Awuna River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Awuna River |
|
---|---|
Location of the mouth of the Awuna River in Alaska
|
|
Country | United States |
State | Alaska |
Borough | North Slope |
Physical characteristics | |
Main source | Swamp north of Lookout Ridge National Petroleum Reserve 1,202 ft (366 m) 69°20′01″N 158°45′22″W / 69.33361°N 158.75611°W |
River mouth | Colville River West of Angoyakvik Pass, National Petroleum Reserve 722 ft (220 m) 69°02′55″N 155°27′48″W / 69.04861°N 155.46333°W |
Length | 200 mi (320 km) |
The Awuna River is a long river in Alaska, a state in the United States. It is also known as Sakvailak by the Iñupiat people. This river is about 200-mile (320 km) long. It flows into the Colville River, which means it is a tributary to it.
The Awuna River is found entirely within a special area called the National Petroleum Reserve. This reserve is located in the North Slope Borough of Alaska.
Where Does the Awuna River Start?
The Awuna River begins in a swampy area. This swamp is located north of a place called Lookout Ridge. The starting point of the river is inside the National Petroleum Reserve.
Journey to the Colville River
From its source, the Awuna River generally flows towards the east. It travels across the landscape of the National Petroleum Reserve. Finally, it joins the larger Colville River. This meeting point is west of a location known as Angoyakvik Pass.
What Does the Name Awuna Mean?
The name Awuna has a special meaning. It means "westward" or Uwanmun. This name comes from the local language. The Iñupiat people, who live in this region, now call the river Sakvailak.