Coal Creek (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coal Creek |
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Footbridge with Coal Creek Falls behind
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| Country | United States |
| State | Washington |
| County | King |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Cougar Mountain |
| River mouth | Lake Washington Newport Shores, Bellevue |
| Length | 7 mi (11 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 7.11 sq mi (18.4 km2) |
Coal Creek is a small waterway, known as a creek, located in Bellevue, Washington, in the United States. It's on the "Eastside" of Seattle, which is a common name for the cities east of Lake Washington. The creek gets its name from the important coal mining industry that was active in this area during the 1800s.
Today, a popular walking trail follows the creek. Along the trail, you can see old equipment from the coal mines. You might even spot small pieces of coal on the ground in some places!
Where Does Coal Creek Start and End?
Coal Creek begins high up on Cougar Mountain, about 1,400 feet (425 meters) above sea level. From there, it flows for about 7 miles (11 kilometers) toward the northwest.
The creek eventually empties into Lake Washington at a place called Newport Shores in Bellevue.
The Story of Coal Mining
The first time coal was found along Coal Creek was in 1863. Two surveyors, Philip H. Lewis and Edwin Richardson, made this discovery.
This coal was in a good spot because it was easier to transport to Seattle than coal found further east at Squak Mountain. In the 1870s, the mining of this coal led to the creation of the town of Newcastle, Washington.
