East Fork Cimarron River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids East Fork Cimarron River |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Confluence with East Fork 9,022 ft (2,750 m) 38°12′15″N 107°31′11″W / 38.20417°N 107.51972°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Cimarron—Gunnison—Colorado |
The East Fork Cimarron River is a river in Colorado. It is about 12.6-mile-long (20.3 km). This river is a tributary of the Cimarron River. A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one.
Where Does the River Start and End?
The East Fork Cimarron River begins near Wetterhorn Peak. This peak is in the Uncompahgre Wilderness. The wilderness area is part of Hinsdale County.
The river then flows until it meets the Middle Fork Cimarron River. This meeting point is in Gunnison County. When these two rivers join, they form the main Cimarron River.
Silver Jack Dam
The East Fork Cimarron River is also important because of the Silver Jack Dam. A dam is a barrier built across a river. It holds back water, creating a reservoir. The Silver Jack Dam helps control the river's flow. It also creates a lake for water storage.
What River System Is It Part Of?
The East Fork Cimarron River is part of a larger river system. It flows into the Cimarron River. The Cimarron River then joins the Gunnison River. Finally, the Gunnison River flows into the mighty Colorado River. This means the water from the East Fork Cimarron River eventually reaches the Colorado River.
