Chilikadrotna River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chilikadrotna River |
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 Location of the mouth of the Chilikadrotna River in Alaska
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| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| Borough | Lake and Peninsula |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Twin Lakes Lake Clark National Park and Preserve 2,001 ft (610 m) 60°39′58″N 154°02′41″W / 60.66611°N 154.04472°W |
| River mouth | Mulchatna River 46 miles (74 km) northwest of Nondalton 850 ft (260 m) 60°35′34″N 155°23′32″W / 60.59278°N 155.39222°W |
| Length | 55 mi (89 km) |
| Type: | Wild |
| Designated: | December 2, 1980 |
The Chilikadrotna River is a river in Alaska, a state in the United States. It is about 55 miles (89 km) long. This river is a branch, or tributary, of the Mulchatna River.
The Chilikadrotna River starts in the Lake Clark National Park and Preserve. This park is located in the northern part of the Lake and Peninsula Borough. The river then flows west. It joins the larger Mulchatna River about 46 miles (74 km) northwest of a town called Nondalton.
In 1980, a special part of the river became protected. The first 11 miles (18 km) of the Chilikadrotna River were added to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. This means that this part of the river is kept "wild." It is located inside the national park.
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Fun on the Chilikadrotna River
The Chilikadrotna River is a great place for outdoor adventures. Many people enjoy floating down the river. This can be done in rafts or kayaks.
When Can You Float the River?
You can usually float on the river from June to September. This is when the water levels are best. You should use rafts that are 10 to 13 feet (3 to 4 meters) long. Kayaks are also a good choice.
How Hard Is the River?
Rivers are often rated by how difficult they are to float. This uses the International Scale of River Difficulty.
- Most of the Chilikadrotna River is rated Class II. This means it has medium difficulty. You might find some small waves or rocks.
- About 5 miles (8 km) after the Little Mulchatna River joins, there is a Class III section. This part is difficult. It might have bigger waves or require more skill to navigate.
- Some parts are Class I, which means they are easy.
What Dangers Should You Watch For?
Even though parts are easy, the river can be tricky.
- Watch out for plants hanging over the water.
- There can be logjams, which are piles of logs blocking the way.
- The current can be very swift, meaning the water moves fast.
- The river also has a narrow and winding path.
Fishing on the River
Fishing from a boat, called floatfishing, is very popular here. However, it's important to know that this river is not for beginners. If you are new to boating, you should go with someone experienced.
You won't find any campgrounds or hotels right along the river. It's a wild area!
What Fish Can You Catch?
Many types of game fish live in the Chilikadrotna River. These include:
