Big Dry Creek (Westminster, Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big Dry Creek |
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The creek just north of West 120th Avenue.
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 39°52′03″N 105°13′49″W / 39.86750°N 105.23028°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the South Platte 4,895 ft (1,492 m) 40°04′21″N 104°49′37″W / 40.07250°N 104.82694°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | South Platte—Platte— Missouri—Mississippi |
| Basin size | 110 sq mi (280 km2) |
Big Dry Creek is a stream that flows into the South Platte River near Fort Lupton, Colorado. It starts in Jefferson County, Colorado, at the entrance of Coal Creek Canyon. Here, the land is about 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) above sea level.
This creek travels through three different counties in Colorado: Jefferson, Adams, and Weld. As it flows through Jefferson County, it passes into and out of Standley Lake. Big Dry Creek also receives water that has been cleaned by several nearby cities, such as Broomfield, Westminster, Thornton, and Northglenn.
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Discover Big Dry Creek
Big Dry Creek is an important stream in Colorado. It helps carry water across a large area. Understanding where it starts and where it goes helps us learn about the local environment.
Where Does the Creek Begin?
Big Dry Creek begins its journey in Jefferson County, Colorado. Its starting point is at the mouth of Coal Creek Canyon. This area is quite high up, about 8,000 feet (2,438 meters) above sea level. From there, the water begins to flow downhill.
The Creek's Path Through Colorado
As Big Dry Creek flows, it travels through three different counties. These are Jefferson, Adams, and Weld counties. Along its way, the creek flows into and then out of Standley Lake. This lake is an important part of the creek's path.
How the Creek Stays Healthy
The Big Dry Creek Watershed Association is a group that helps take care of the creek. This non-profit organization includes people and representatives from local cities. They work together to check on the creek's health and make sure it stays clean.
Another Big Dry Creek?
It can be a bit confusing, but there is actually another creek in the Denver area with the same name! The other Big Dry Creek starts in Douglas County. It then joins the South Platte River in Littleton. This article is about the one that flows near Fort Lupton.
Exploring the Big Dry Creek Trail
If you like to explore outdoors, there's a fun place called the Big Dry Creek Trail. This trail is great for walking or biking. It generally follows the creek's path from Standley Lake Regional Park all the way to Interstate 25. It's a great way to see parts of the creek up close.
