Burnside River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Burnside River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | Canada |
| Territory | Nunavut |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Contwoyto Lake |
| River mouth | Bathurst Inlet |
The Burnside River is an exciting river in Nunavut, a territory in northern Canada. It begins its journey at Contwoyto Lake (66°2′36″N 111°14′33″W / 66.04333°N 111.24250°W). The river flows across a very old rocky area called the Precambrian Shield. It then travels through wild and rugged tundra land.
The Burnside River also flows through Lake Kathawachaga and the Wilberforce Hills. Before it reaches Bathurst Inlet and the Arctic Ocean, another river called the Mara River joins it. There is even an island in the river named Nadlak. Long ago, the Inuit people used caribou antlers from this island to build roofs for their huts.
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Discover the Burnside River!
The Burnside River is a special place. It is home to many amazing animals and plants. It also has a rich history and offers exciting adventures for people today.
Where is the Burnside River?
The Burnside River is located in the far north of Canada. It is in the Nunavut territory. This area is known for its cold climate and unique landscapes. The river starts at Contwoyto Lake. It then flows north towards the Arctic Ocean.
Amazing Animals and Plants
The land around the Burnside River is always frozen deep down. This is called permafrost. Even with this cold ground, many creatures thrive here. The river is a key path for the Bathurst barren-ground caribou. These caribou migrate across the land in large herds.
You can also find other wild animals here. These include Arctic wolves and grizzly bears. Large, shaggy muskox also live in the area. Many birds fly over the river. Look for golden eagles, rough-legged hawks, and gyrfalcons.
The river itself is full of fish. You might spot Arctic char, Arctic grayling, lake trout, and whitefish. Along the riverbanks, you will see small plants. These include dwarf willow and alder bushes. There are also about 125 different kinds of wild flowers that bloom in the short summer.
A River with History
The Burnside River area has a long history. You can find old items left by the Copper Inuit people. These include tools and gravestones. The Inuit also traded with the Dene people. They received items like needles and other tools.
A famous explorer named Sir John Franklin visited this area. He explored the Burnside River in 1821 and 1822. He was working for the Hudson's Bay Company at the time. His visits helped to map this part of northern Canada.
Adventure on the River
Today, the Burnside River is a popular spot for adventure. Many people enjoy canoeing here. It is known as a great whitewater canoe route. The river has long sections of continuous whitewater. This means the water is always moving fast. There are also several more challenging rapids. These parts of the river are exciting for experienced canoeists.
