Detroit River facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Detroit River
Rivière du Détroit
Windsor police passing by the Renaissance Center
Countries	United States, Canada
State	Michigan
Province	Ontario
Tributaries
- left	Ecorse River, River Rouge
- right	Little River, River Canard
Cities	United States: Detroit, Grosse Pointe Park, River Rouge, Ecorse, Wyandotte, Riverview, Trenton, Grosse Ile, Gibraltar, Canada: Tecumseh, Windsor, La Salle, Amherstburg
Source	Lake St. Clair
- elevation	574 ft (175 m)
- coordinates	42°21′07″N 82°55′03″W / 42.35194°N 82.91750°W / 42.35194; -82.91750
Mouth	Lake Erie
- elevation	571 ft (174 m)
- coordinates	42°03′06″N 83°09′05″W / 42.05167°N 83.15139°W / 42.05167; -83.15139
Length	28 mi (45 km)
Basin	700 sq mi (1,813 km²)
Discharge
- average	188,000 cu ft/s (5,324 m³/s)

The Detroit River is an important river in the Great Lakes system. It connects Lake St. Clair to Lake Erie. This river also forms part of the border between Canada and the United States. It is about 24 nautical miles (44 kilometers or 28 miles) long. The river separates the big cities of Detroit in the U.S. and Windsor in Canada. It is known as one of the busiest waterways in the world.

The name Detroit River comes from the French phrase Rivière du Détroit. This means River of the Strait. A "strait" is a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water.

River Facts: Where Does It Flow?

The Detroit River starts at Lake St. Clair. It then flows south for about 28 miles (45 km). Finally, it empties into Lake Erie. This river is a key part of the Great Lakes water system.

Cities Along the River

Many cities and towns are located along the Detroit River. On the U.S. side in Michigan, you'll find Detroit, River Rouge, and Wyandotte. On the Canadian side in Ontario, cities like Windsor and Amherstburg are located here. These cities have grown because of the river's importance for trade and travel.

Busy Waterway for Ships

The Detroit River is very busy with ships. Large freighters, also called "lake freighters," carry goods like iron ore and grain. They travel between the upper Great Lakes and Lake Erie. This makes the river a vital route for shipping in North America.

Wildlife and Environment

The Detroit River is home to many kinds of wildlife. You can find different types of fish, birds, and other animals here. Efforts have been made to clean up the river. This helps protect its natural environment.

Fish and Birds

Many fish live in the Detroit River. These include walleye, bass, and perch. The river is also a great spot for birdwatching. Many migratory birds stop here during their long journeys. This shows how important the river is for nature.

History of the Detroit River

The Detroit River has a rich history. Native American tribes lived along its banks for thousands of years. Later, French explorers arrived in the 17th century. They saw the river as a perfect spot for trade and settlement.

Early Settlements

In 1701, the French built Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit. This fort became the city of Detroit. The river was important for defense and trade. It helped connect early settlements in the region.

War of 1812 Role

The Detroit River played a role in the War of 1812. It was a key border area between the U.S. and British Canada. Battles were fought near the river. It was important for moving troops and supplies.

Recreation and Fun

Today, the Detroit River is a popular place for fun activities. People enjoy boating, fishing, and watching ships. There are also parks and trails along its banks.

Parks and Trails

Many parks line the river on both sides. These parks offer great views of the water and city skylines. People can walk, bike, or have picnics. It's a nice way to enjoy the river's beauty.

Boating and Fishing

Boating is very popular on the Detroit River. You can see many different kinds of boats. Fishing is also a favorite pastime. People come from all over to fish for walleye and other species.

Images for kids

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  Aerial view of the Detroit River looking north

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  Satellite photo showing Lake Saint Clair (center) with the Detroit River connecting it to Lake Erie (to the south) and the St. Clair River connecting it to Lake Huron (to the north).

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  Aerial view of a classification yard and two train ferries, 1943

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  MV American Courage passing through the Detroit River. Lake freighters are a common sight on the river.

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  The Detroit Princess is one of many cruise ships on the river.

See also

In Spanish: Río Detroit para niños