Black Moshannon Creek facts for kids
Black Moshannon Creek is a stream about 22.9 kilometers (14.2 miles) long in Centre County, Pennsylvania. It is a tributary that flows into Moshannon Creek.
What's in a Name?
The name Moshannon comes from Native American words. Some people thought it meant "moose stream." However, experts believe it more likely means "elk stream." This comes from the Lenape word Mos'hanna'unk, which means "elk river place." Long ago, elk lived in central Pennsylvania, but moose did not.
Historically, Black Moshannon Creek was also known as "Little Moshannon Creek."
Where Does it Flow?
Black Moshannon Creek begins high up on the Allegheny Plateau. It gets its water from clear springs and small streams. These streams flow through wet, marshy areas called bogs. These bogs help form the 250-acre Black Moshannon Lake inside Black Moshannon State Park.
After leaving the lake, the creek flows downhill from the plateau. It then joins Moshannon Creek about 17.8 miles (28.6 km) downstream. This meeting point is past the community of Moshannon.
Fun on the Water
When the water levels are high, Black Moshannon Creek is a great spot for whitewater rafting or kayaking. It is considered a Class III whitewater run, which means it has exciting rapids for experienced paddlers.
