Coldwater River (Isabella County) facts for kids

The Coldwater River is a small but important waterway located in Michigan, a state in the United States. This river is about 13.1-mile-long (21.1 km), which is roughly 21 kilometers. It flows through Isabella County and plays a role in the local environment.

The Coldwater River begins its journey as water flowing out of Littlefield Lake. This lake is found in the western part of Gilmore Township. From there, the river mostly flows south. Its journey ends when it joins the Chippewa River. This meeting point is near the western edge of Deerfield Township, not far from Lake Isabella.

What Are Tributaries?

A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger river or lake. Think of them as branches joining a main tree trunk. The Coldwater River has several tributaries that feed water into it, making it larger as it flows.

Main Water Sources of the Coldwater River

The Coldwater River gets its water from several smaller streams and lakes. These are its main tributaries, listed starting from those closest to where the Coldwater River joins the Chippewa River:

• Coldwater Lake: This lake is located in Nottawa Township and adds water to the river.
• Lake of the Hills: Found in both Nottawa and Sherman townships, this lake also contributes water.
  • Walker Creek: This creek flows into Lake of the Hills. It starts in the south-central part of Coldwater Township.
    • Colley Creek: A smaller creek that flows into Walker Creek, starting in the southwest of Coldwater Township.
    • Delaney Creek: Another small creek that joins Walker Creek, beginning in the north-central part of Coldwater Township.
• Littlefield Lake: As mentioned, this lake in western Gilmore Township is where the Coldwater River officially begins.
  • Sucker Creek: This creek flows into Littlefield Lake, starting in the northwest of Gilmore Township.

These different lakes and creeks are all connected, forming a network that supplies water to the Coldwater River. This system is important for the local plants, animals, and people who live near the river.