Elk River (Minnesota) facts for kids
The Elk River is a river located in central Minnesota, United States. It flows for about 84 miles (135 kilometers). This river is like a smaller stream that flows into a bigger one. The Elk River flows into the mighty Mississippi River. It collects water from an area of about 630 square miles (1,630 square kilometers). This area is called its watershed.
Where the Elk River Flows
The Elk River begins in the northern part of Benton County, Minnesota. At first, it flows south. When it reaches Sherburne County, the river turns to the southeast. It then flows alongside the Mississippi River for the rest of its journey.
The river passes by towns like Becker and Big Lake. In 1843, a mapmaker named Joseph Nicollet called this river "Kabitawi R[iver]". This name comes from the Ojibwe words Gaa-biitawi-ziibi, which means "the paralleling river." This name makes sense because the Elk River flows right next to the Mississippi River.
The Elk River finally joins the Mississippi River at the city of Elk River. Before it joins, it flows through Orono Lake. This lake was created by a dam that uses the river's water to make electricity.
River Flow at Big Lake
Near Big Lake, the river moves about 285 cubic feet of water every second. That's like filling about three bathtubs with water each second!
Smaller Rivers Joining the Elk
In Big Lake Township in Sherburne County, two smaller rivers flow into the Elk River. These are the St. Francis River and the Snake River.
The Snake River is a smaller stream that stays entirely within Sherburne County. It flows south through areas like Santiago, Becker, and Big Lake Townships. Parts of the Snake River have been straightened by people to help with water flow.
