Chaco River facts for kids

The Chaco River is a river in New Mexico. It flows into the San Juan River. The Chaco River is located in San Juan County, New Mexico.

This aerial view shows the Chaco River in northwest New Mexico. You can see other streams like Captain Tom Wash and Sanostee Wash joining it. In the background are the Carrizo Mountains and Chuska Mountains. The San Juan River is visible at the top right.

The Chaco River: A Desert Waterway

The Chaco River is an important waterway in the dry, desert landscape of New Mexico. Even though it might not always have a lot of water, especially during dry seasons, it plays a role in the local environment.

Where Does the Chaco River Begin and End?

The Chaco River starts at a place called its source. This source is located at an elevation of about 6,050 feet (1,844 meters) above sea level. You can find it near the coordinates 36°05′10″N 108°00′30″W / 36.08611°N 108.00833°W / 36.08611; -108.00833.

The river then flows until it reaches its mouth, which is where it empties into another river. For the Chaco River, its mouth is where it joins the San Juan River. This meeting point is at a lower elevation of about 4,918 feet (1,499 meters).

What Are Its Connections?

The Chaco River is connected to other streams and washes. A wash is a dry streambed that only carries water after heavy rains. Near its source, the Chaco River meets two important washes: Chaco Wash and Escavado Wash.

This area is also very close to the famous Chaco Canyon. This park is known for its ancient ruins built by the Ancestral Pueblo people many centuries ago. The presence of the Chaco River, even if seasonal, would have been important for these ancient communities.