Clear Creek (Little Colorado River tributary) facts for kids
Clear Creek is a beautiful waterway in Arizona that starts high up in the mountains and flows through different landscapes. It's known for its clear waters and the fun activities you can do there.
Clear Creek: A Natural Wonder in Arizona
Clear Creek begins its journey in the Mogollon Rim area of Arizona. The Mogollon Rim is like a giant step or cliff that stretches across much of central Arizona, marking the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. It's a very impressive natural feature!
The creek then flows through the lands of the Navajo Nation. The Navajo Nation is a large area in the southwestern United States where the Navajo people live and govern themselves. It's an important cultural and historical place.
Clear Creek continues its path until it reaches Clear Creek Reservoir near the town of Winslow, Arizona. After the reservoir, the creek flows a bit further until it meets a larger river called the Little Colorado River. When two rivers or streams meet, it's called a confluence. Clear Creek also has a smaller stream that flows into it, called East Clear Creek. A smaller stream that flows into a larger one is called a tributary.
Fun Things to Do at Clear Creek
Clear Creek and its reservoir are popular spots for outdoor fun. In the 1930s, a dam was built on Clear Creek, which created the Clear Creek Reservoir. A dam is a barrier built across a river to hold back water, forming a lake or reservoir. This reservoir helps store water and also creates a great place for recreation.
Visitors can enjoy many activities here, especially during the warmer months. You can go fishing for different kinds of fish, or cool off by swimming in the clear water. Boating is another popular activity, whether you like to paddle a kayak or use a small motorboat. For the more adventurous, there's even cliff diving (from safe, designated spots) and rock climbing on the canyon walls nearby. It's a fantastic place to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature!