Clearfield Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clearfield Creek |
|
|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Woodlands near Loretto, Pennsylvania, near junction of Vale Rd. with Dream Rd. 40°28′51″N 78°38′50″W / 40.480772°N 78.647088°W |
| River mouth | West Branch Susquehanna River within Clearfield, Pennsylvania. 41°01′29″N 78°23′57″W / 41.0247°N 78.3992°W |
| Length | 73.4 miles (118.1 km) |
Clearfield Creek is a river in Pennsylvania, United States. It flows for about 73.4 miles (118.1 kilometers). This creek is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller river that flows into a bigger one. Clearfield Creek joins the West Branch Susquehanna River. It runs through two counties: Cambria and Clearfield.
Contents
The Journey of Clearfield Creek
Clearfield Creek begins in the woodlands near Loretto, Pennsylvania. At first, it flows generally towards the east. Along its path, the creek is dammed to create Cresson Lake.
Flowing Through Towns
After Cresson Lake, the creek changes direction. It flows mostly northeast or north-northeast. Many smaller streams join Clearfield Creek from both the east and west sides. A road called Pennsylvania Route 53 runs alongside much of the creek.
The creek passes near several small towns. These include Ashville, Coalport, and Glen Hope. Finally, Clearfield Creek meets the West Branch Susquehanna River near the town of Clearfield.
A Path for Trains
The valley where Clearfield Creek flows was once very important for trains. The Pennsylvania Railroad used this valley as a path for their tracks. Trains would climb from Clearfield up to a special track junction called a "wye" in Cresson.
Today, part of this old railroad path is still in use. The section between Cresson and Flinton is used by the R.J. Corman Railroad/Pennsylvania Lines.
Why the Name "Clearfield"?
The name "Clearfield Creek" has an interesting history. It was named because of "clear fields" that were once found along its banks. These clear areas were created by large herds of grazing buffalo. They would eat the plants, leaving open, clear spaces.
