Big Quilcene River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big Quilcene River |
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Big Quilcene River
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Location of the mouth of the Big Quilcene River in Washington
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| Country | United States |
| State | Washington |
| County | Jefferson |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Olympic Mountains 47°48′52″N 123°7′9″W / 47.81444°N 123.11917°W |
| River mouth | Hood Canal 47°49′7″N 122°51′46″W / 47.81861°N 122.86278°W |
The Big Quilcene River is a cool river located on the Olympic Peninsula in the state of Washington, United States. It starts high up in the Olympic Mountains and flows all the way to Hood Canal. This river is an important part of the natural environment in the area.
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Journey of the Big Quilcene River
The Big Quilcene River begins its journey in the Buckhorn Wilderness. This wilderness area is found near Marmot Pass. It's also close to Buckhorn Mountain and Boulder Ridge.
Flowing Through the Mountains
From its source, the river generally flows towards the east. It travels through the beautiful Olympic Mountains. It also passes through the Olympic National Forest.
For a short time, the river turns south. Then, it meets another stream called Tunnel Creek. After this, it turns back to flow east again. The river carves its way through the Quilcene Range. Many smaller streams join it here, like Mile And A Half Creek.
Reaching the Hood Canal
Near a place called Rainbow Campground, the river changes direction. It starts flowing north. For a while, it runs alongside U.S. Route 101.
In its final few miles, the river turns east one last time. It flows past the southern edge of the town of Quilcene. Finally, the Big Quilcene River empties into Quilcene Bay. This bay is part of the larger Hood Canal. The Little Quilcene River also flows into Quilcene Bay, just a short distance north.
What Does "Quilcene" Mean?
The name "Quilcene" has a special meaning. It comes from the Twana language. The word is /qʷəʔlsíd/.
This word was used to describe a native tribal group. It also named an old Twana village and community. This community was located right on Quilcene Bay.
