East River (New River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids East River |
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The East River in Hardy, West Virginia
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A map of the East River and its watershed
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| Country | United States |
| State | West Virginia, Virginia |
| Counties | Mercer, Giles |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Bluefield, West Virginia 2,304 ft (702 m) 37°16′53″N 81°10′31″W / 37.2815066°N 81.1753726°W |
| River mouth | New River Glen Lyn, Virginia 1,489 ft (454 m) 37°22′26″N 80°52′01″W / 37.3740097°N 80.8670240°W |
| Length | 24 mi (39 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 76.4 sq mi (198 km2) |
| Hydrologic Unit Codes | 050500020603, 050500020604 (USGS) |
The East River is a river in the United States. It flows through southern West Virginia and southwestern Virginia. This river is about 24 miles (39 km) long.
It is a tributary of the New River. A tributary is a smaller river that flows into a larger one. The East River is part of a huge watershed. This means its water eventually reaches the Mississippi River.
About the East River
The East River gets its name because it flows mostly towards the east. It starts in Mercer County, West Virginia. This is near the city of Bluefield.
The river begins high up on East River Mountain. It then flows generally east-northeast. This path takes it through the beautiful Ridge-and-Valley Appalachians region.
Where Does the East River Flow?
As it travels, the East River passes through several small communities. These include Ada and Ingleside. It also flows through Hardy and the town of Oakvale.
Further along its journey, it goes past Kellysville and Willowton. For much of its route, the river runs next to roads. These roads are West Virginia Route 112 and U.S. Route 460.
Its Journey to the New River
The East River eventually crosses into Virginia. It enters Giles County. Soon after, it joins the New River. This meeting point is in the town of Glen Lyn.
The New River then flows into the Kanawha River. The Kanawha River joins the Ohio River. Finally, the Ohio River flows into the mighty Mississippi River. This shows how all these rivers are connected.
