Cardinal River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cardinal River |
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Cardinal River from the Rocky Pass Trail
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| Country | Canada |
| Province | Alberta |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Cardinal River Headwaters 2,224 m (7,297 ft) 52°54′02″N 117°23′02″W / 52.90056°N 117.38389°W |
| River mouth | Brazeau River 1,288 m (4,226 ft) 52°51′52″N 116°35′15″W / 52.86444°N 116.58750°W |
The Cardinal River is a short but important river in western Alberta, Canada. It begins high up in the Canadian Rockies mountains. This river then flows into the Brazeau River. The Brazeau River is a large stream that joins the North Saskatchewan River.
Where the River Flows
The Cardinal River starts in a special area near Jasper National Park. It forms in a basin, which is like a bowl-shaped valley. This basin is surrounded by several mountains, including Mount Cardinal. From there, the river flows towards the east. It travels through the eastern parts of the Canadian Rockies. Then it moves into the foothills, which are smaller hills at the base of the mountains.
A road called Grave Flats Road follows part of the river's path. The river eventually reaches the Bighorn Highway. Here, it flows into the Brazeau River. This meeting point is south of a place called Pembina Forks.
How the River Got Its Name
The Cardinal River, along with other nearby places, is named after a person. His name was Jacques Cardinal. He was a fur trader who lived in the area a long time ago. A fur trader is someone who buys and sells animal furs. Jacques Cardinal's grave is located right on the banks of this river.
Smaller Streams Joining the River
Many smaller streams and creeks flow into the Cardinal River. These smaller streams are called tributaries. They add more water to the main river as it flows. Some of these tributaries include:
- Toma Creek
- Russell Creek
- Nomad Creek
- Ruby Creek
- Ruby Creek gets water from Ruby Lakes, Flapjack Lake, and Flapjack Creek.
- Grave Creek
- Muskiki Creek
- Muskiki Creek gets water from Muskiki Lake.
