Charles River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Charles River |
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Charles, Mystic, and Neponset river watersheds
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| Country | United States |
| State | Massachusetts |
| Cities | Hopkinton, Cambridge, Boston |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Echo Lake Hopkinton, Massachusetts, United States 350 ft (110 m) 42°11′34″N 71°30′43″W / 42.19278°N 71.51194°W |
| River mouth | Boston Harbor Boston, Massachusetts, United States 0 ft (0 m) 42°22′14″N 71°3′13″W / 42.37056°N 71.05361°W |
| Length | 80 mi (130 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 308 sq mi (800 km2) |
The Charles River is a famous river in Massachusetts, USA. It flows for 80 miles (about 129 kilometers). The river starts at Echo Lake in Hopkinton. It then winds its way through many towns and cities. Finally, it reaches the Atlantic Ocean through Boston Harbor. The Charles River is a special place for both nature and city life. It separates the big city of Boston from Cambridge.
Exploring the Charles River
The Charles River is much more than just a waterway. It is a central part of life for many people in Massachusetts. The river offers many fun activities. It also has a rich history.
Where Does the Charles River Flow?
The Charles River begins its journey in Hopkinton, Massachusetts. This is a town located west of Boston. From there, it flows northeast. It passes through 23 different towns and cities. These include Newton, Waltham, and Watertown.
The River's Path to the Ocean
As the river gets closer to Boston, it becomes wider. This wider part is called the Charles River Basin. It is a popular spot for many activities. The river then flows into Boston Harbor. This harbor is part of the vast Atlantic Ocean.
Fun Activities on the River
The Charles River is a hub for outdoor fun. Many people visit its banks every day. There are lots of ways to enjoy the river.
Boating and Water Sports
The Charles River is famous for rowing. Many colleges and clubs practice here. You can often see long, narrow crew boats gliding across the water. People also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and sailing. There are places to rent boats if you do not own one.
Walking and Biking Along the Esplanade
Along the Boston and Cambridge sides of the river, there is a beautiful park. It is called the Charles River Esplanade. This park has miles of paths. People love to walk, run, and bike here. It is a great place to enjoy nature in the city. You can see amazing views of the Boston skyline.
Fishing and Wildlife
The Charles River is home to many kinds of fish. These include American Shad and striped bass. People enjoy fishing from the riverbanks. The river also attracts many birds. You might see ducks, geese, and even Great Blue Herons. It is a great place to watch wildlife.
Keeping the Charles River Clean
For many years, the Charles River was quite polluted. But a lot of effort has been made to clean it up. Now, it is much healthier.
Efforts to Improve Water Quality
Groups like the Charles River Watershed Association work hard. They monitor the water quality. They also push for rules to protect the river. Thanks to these efforts, the river is now clean enough for swimming on certain days. This is a big achievement!
Why a Clean River Matters
A clean river is important for everyone. It helps the plants and animals that live there. It also provides a safe place for people to have fun. Protecting the Charles River means protecting our environment. It ensures future generations can enjoy it too.
Images for kids
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A sunny day on the Charles River Esplanade
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Sailboats moored on the Charlestown side of the Charles River with Bunker Hill Monument in the distance
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Sunset at Charles River in December 2010
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American Shad (Alosa Sapidissima)
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View of the Charles River, Community Rowing, Inc. and Boston from Nonantum.
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The Charles River from the Boston side, facing Weld Boathouse and the main campus of Harvard University in Cambridge.
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View of Charles River at Newton Upper Falls
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Charles River under Echo Bridge in Newton
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Charles River at Medfield-Millis town line
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Charles River basin from an office tower in Boston.
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Charles River Esplanade, 2013
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Charles River Esplanade, 2013
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View of the Charles River and Downtown Boston from the Boston University Bridge
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John W. Weeks Bridge
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See also
In Spanish: Río Charles para niños
