Crystal River (Michigan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crystal River |
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Glen Lake, Michigan 44°53′30″N 85°56′41″W / 44.89166°N 85.94472°W |
| River mouth | Lake Michigan 44°55′07″N 85°58′15″W / 44.9186°N 85.97092°W |
| Length | 6.3 mi (10.1 km) |
The Crystal River is a beautiful stream in Leelanau County, located in northern Michigan. It flows for about 6.3-mile (10.1 km) from Glen Lake into Lake Michigan. This happens just north of the small town of Glen Arbor. Even though the straight distance between Glen Lake and Lake Michigan is only about 1.2 miles (1.9 km), the river takes a much longer, winding path. It meanders through swampy areas, making its journey more than five times longer!
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Exploring the Crystal River
The Crystal River is a favorite spot for many outdoor activities. People love to go kayaking, rafting, and canoeing here. You can find two places in Glen Arbor that rent out canoes and kayaks.
River Features for Fun
The river is usually quite shallow, often less than 1 foot (0.30 m) deep. Its width is typically between 15 to 20 feet (4.6 to 6.1 m). The bottom is sandy, which makes it perfect for families and beginners. There are a few spots called portages. This is where you have to carry your boat around a small obstacle. For example, the river flows through drainage pipes under a county road. There is also one small dam on the river. It helps control water levels right after the river leaves Glen Lake.
Fishing in the Crystal River
If you enjoy fly fishing, the Crystal River is a great place to visit. It has many different kinds of fish. You can find a lot of brook and rainbow trout here. Also, lake trout and salmon swim from Lake Michigan into Glen Lake using this river.
Wildlife and Nature Along the River
Many homes and cottages are built along the lower parts of the river. This area stretches from Glen Arbor to where the river meets Lake Michigan. The river banks are surrounded by different types of trees. You can see groves of cedar, tamarack, and paper birch. The swampy areas along the river are perfect homes for many animals.
Animals You Might See
The Crystal River is a busy place for wildlife. You might spot turtles, frogs, beavers, muskrats, and otters. Many birds also live here or visit. Look out for majestic Bald eagles, graceful herons, and various types of ducks and swans. It's a wonderful place for birdwatching!
Protecting the River's Home
People are working hard to keep the Crystal River healthy. State and local groups are trying to improve and restore the entire Crystal River Watershed. A watershed is the area of land that drains into a river. Their goal is to make sure the river's environment can support all the native plants and animals that call it home.
