Crossing of the Fathers facts for kids

Crossing of the Fathers is a special place on the Colorado River in Utah. It's a historic river crossing that was once a series of sandbars. These sandbars were located at a big bend in the river. Today, this spot is deep underwater in Padre Bay, which is part of Lake Powell. The Glen Canyon Dam, finished in 1966, caused the water level to rise, covering the crossing with nearly 400 feet (122 meters) of water.

Why is it Called Crossing of the Fathers?

The name "Crossing of the Fathers" comes from two Spanish priests, also known as "padres." Their names were Atanasio Domínguez and Silvestre Vélez de Escalante. They were explorers who first found and reported this crossing in 1776. They used it during their expedition to explore the American Southwest.

How Was the Crossing Used?

Later, in 1828, the Crossing of the Fathers became an important part of the Old Spanish Trail. This trail was a famous trade route that connected Santa Fe, New Mexico, with Los Angeles, California. The Armijo Route, a specific path of the Old Spanish Trail, used this river crossing to get across the mighty Colorado River.