Belle Fourche River facts for kids
The Belle Fourche River (pronounced bel FOOSH) is a river in the United States. It flows through Wyoming and South Dakota. This river is about 290 miles (467 km) long. It is a tributary of the Cheyenne River. A tributary is a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river.
The Belle Fourche River is part of a much larger watershed. A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains into a common point. This river's water eventually flows into the Mississippi River. It does this by first joining the Cheyenne River, which then flows into the Missouri River. The Missouri River then joins the Mississippi River.
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River's Path and Special Points
The Belle Fourche River starts in Wyoming. It then travels east into South Dakota. A special spot is where the river leaves Wyoming and enters South Dakota. This is the lowest point in Wyoming. This elevation is about 3,099 feet (945 meters) above sea level.
Wyoming has the second-highest "lowest point" of any U.S. state. This means that even the lowest spot in Wyoming is quite high up. It is higher than the lowest points in almost all other states.
Where the Name Comes From
The name "Belle Fourche" comes from French words. It means "beautiful fork" or "beautiful branch." This name likely describes a place where the river splits or joins another stream. Early explorers or settlers probably gave it this name.
Wildlife and Nature
The areas around the Belle Fourche River are home to many animals. You might find deer, various birds, and other wildlife here. The river provides water for these animals. It also helps plants grow in the surrounding lands.
The river's path goes near Devils Tower National Monument. This famous rock formation is a popular place to visit. The river helps shape the landscape in this region.
Importance of the River
Rivers like the Belle Fourche are very important. They provide water for people, farms, and animals. They also create habitats for fish and other water creatures. The river's flow helps keep the ecosystem healthy. It also plays a role in the history and development of the areas it passes through.
