Crow Creek (South Platte River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crow Creek |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 41°10′19″N 105°04′51″W / 41.17194°N 105.08083°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with South Platte 4,557 ft (1,389 m) 40°23′11″N 104°29′35″W / 40.38639°N 104.49306°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | South Platte—Platte— Missouri—Mississippi |
Crow Creek is a waterway that stretches about 153 miles (246 kilometers) across southeastern Wyoming and northern Colorado. This important creek helps supply water to people and wildlife in the region. It starts high in the mountains and flows towards bigger rivers.
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Crow Creek: A Journey Through Two States
Crow Creek begins when several smaller streams, called forks, join together. The South Fork, Middle Fork, and North Fork all come together to form the main creek. These forks start in the Laramie Mountains and flow towards the east.
Where Does Crow Creek Begin?
The main parts of Crow Creek start in the Laramie Mountains. These mountains are a range within the larger Rocky Mountains. The water from melting snow and rain in these mountains feeds the creek.
- The North Fork's water is held back by a dam, forming North Crow Reservoir. This reservoir is an important water source for the city of Cheyenne.
- The Middle Fork also has dams, creating Granite and Crystal reservoirs. These reservoirs also provide water for Cheyenne.
- The South Fork is the only part of the creek that flows freely without dams. It usually has water most of the year, but it doesn't always reach Cheyenne.
Crow Creek's Path
After the forks combine, Crow Creek continues its journey eastward. Along the way, other smaller streams, like Sand Creek, Spring Creek, and Brush Creek, join it. However, these smaller streams don't flow all year round.
The creek then flows through the city of Cheyenne, Wyoming. After passing Cheyenne, it turns southeast and enters Colorado.
Joining Bigger Rivers
Once in Colorado, Crow Creek continues its path until it meets the South Platte River. The South Platte River is a much larger river. From there, the water from Crow Creek travels even further.
- It flows into the Platte River.
- Then, it joins the mighty Missouri River.
- Finally, the water from Crow Creek eventually reaches the Mississippi River, which flows all the way to the Gulf of Mexico.
This long journey shows how all rivers are connected, with smaller streams feeding into larger ones, eventually reaching the ocean.
