Big Sandy Creek (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big Sandy Creek |
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The creek at Colorado State Highway 96 in Kiowa County.
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | El Paso County, Colorado 39°04′38″N 104°27′20″W / 39.07722°N 104.45556°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the Arkansas 3,547 ft (1,081 m) 38°06′43″N 102°29′03″W / 38.11194°N 102.48417°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Arkansas—Mississippi |
| Basin size | 1,863 sq mi (4,830 km2) |
Big Sandy Creek is a long waterway in Colorado, stretching about 211 miles (340 kilometers). It's a tributary of the Arkansas River, which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger river. This creek is known for being near the site of an important historical event in Kiowa County.
Even though it's a creek, you might find that long parts of Big Sandy Creek look dry on the surface most of the time. But don't let that fool you! Water still flows underground, even if you can't see it.
The creek begins its journey near Peyton in El Paso County, Colorado. From there, it travels through several other counties: Elbert, Lincoln, Cheyenne, and Kiowa. Finally, it joins the mighty Arkansas River in Prowers county, just east of the town of Lamar.
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What is Big Sandy Creek?
Big Sandy Creek is an important part of the Arkansas River system. It helps carry water from a wide area of about 1,863 square miles (4,825 square kilometers) into the Arkansas River. Even though it's often dry on the surface, it plays a role in the local environment and history.
Where Does It Start and End?
Big Sandy Creek starts high up in El Paso County, Colorado, where its source is at an elevation of about 7,000 feet (2,134 meters). It then flows southeast across the plains of eastern Colorado. Its journey ends when it meets the Arkansas River at an elevation of about 3,547 feet (1,081 meters). This drop in elevation helps the water flow, even if it's mostly underground.
Why Is It Often Dry?
Many creeks and rivers in dry regions like eastern Colorado are called "intermittent" or "ephemeral." This means they only flow with water on the surface after heavy rains or during snowmelt. For much of the year, the water sinks into the ground, flowing beneath the sandy creek bed. This underground water is still very important for plants and animals in the area.
Historical Significance
Big Sandy Creek is historically significant because it is near the location of the Sand Creek National Historic Site. This site marks a very important and sad event in American history that happened in 1864. It was a time of conflict between the United States Army and Native American tribes, including the Cheyenne and Arapaho people.
The Sand Creek National Historic Site
Today, the Sand Creek National Historic Site is a place where people can learn about this difficult period in history. It helps us remember the past and understand the challenges faced by Native American communities. The site aims to teach visitors about the importance of peace and understanding between different cultures. It's a place for reflection and education, helping future generations learn from history.
The Creek's Journey Through Colorado
Big Sandy Creek flows through several counties, each with its own unique landscape.
- El Paso County: This is where the creek begins, in the eastern part of the county.
- Elbert County: The creek continues its path through the rural areas of Elbert County.
- Lincoln County: It then crosses into Lincoln County, often flowing through wide-open plains.
- Cheyenne County: As it moves east, the creek enters Cheyenne County.
- Kiowa County: This county is where the Sand Creek National Historic Site is located, making it a notable part of the creek's journey.
- Prowers County: Finally, Big Sandy Creek reaches Prowers County, where it joins the Arkansas River.
