Cascade River (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cascade River |
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Location of the mouth of the Cascade River in Washington
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| Country | United States |
| State | Washington |
| County | Skagit |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of Middle and South Forks North Cascades 48°27′45″N 121°9′50″W / 48.46250°N 121.16389°W |
| River mouth | Skagit River Marblemount 48°31′25″N 121°25′47″W / 48.52361°N 121.42972°W |
The Cascade River is a beautiful river in the U.S. state of Washington. It is a smaller river that flows into the larger Skagit River. The two rivers meet near the town of Marblemount. The Cascade River is very special because it is part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This means it is protected for its amazing natural beauty and importance.
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Where the River Begins
The Cascade River doesn't start from just one spot. It forms when two main branches, called "forks," come together. These forks are the South Fork and the Middle Fork.
The South Fork
The South Fork of the Cascade River starts at South Cascade Lake. From there, it flows west for a short distance. Then, it quickly turns north and keeps flowing in that direction. It continues until it meets the Middle Fork. About halfway along its journey, the South Fork flows through a narrow valley called Box Canyon.
The Middle Fork
The Middle Fork begins at the bottom of the Middle Cascade Glacier. A glacier is a very large, slow-moving river of ice. The Middle Fork flows north for a bit, then turns west. It then joins with the South Fork to create the main Cascade River. Just before it meets the South Fork, the river tumbles over a waterfall called Gemini Falls.
The North Fork
Another important branch is the North Fork. It starts at Cascade Pass, which is a mountain pass. It flows north for a short time. Then, it makes a wide turn, almost like a U-turn, until it reaches the main Cascade River. Along its way, the North Fork picks up water from several large streams. Many of these streams are fed by melting glaciers.
The Main Cascade River
The main part of the Cascade River begins where the South and Middle Forks join. From there, it flows north. Just before the North Fork joins it, the river turns west. After that, it flows northwest. When it reaches the mouth of Marble Creek, the river turns west again. It continues in this direction until it finally flows into the Skagit River.
