Harris Creek (Valley River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Harris Creek |
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Location of Harris Creek mouth
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| Other name(s) | Tributary to Valley River |
| Country | United States |
| State | North Carolina |
| County | Cherokee |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Junaluska Creek divide about 2 miles southeast of Rhodo, North Carolina 3,540 ft (1,080 m) 35°12′09″N 083°44′01″W / 35.20250°N 83.73361°W |
| River mouth | Valley River about 0.25 miles southwest of Rhodo, North Carolina 2,082 ft (635 m) 35°13′02″N 083°45′17″W / 35.21722°N 83.75472°W |
| Length | 2.04 mi (3.28 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | northwest |
| River system | Hiawassee River |
| Basin size | 1.63 square miles (4.2 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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| Bridges | US 19-US 129 |
Harris Creek is a small, winding stream located in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, in a place called Cherokee County. It's about 2.04 mi (3.28 km) long, which is like walking a little over 3 kilometers! This creek is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger river. Harris Creek flows into the Valley River, adding its water to the bigger river's journey.
Contents
Where Harris Creek Begins and Ends
Harris Creek starts its journey high up in the mountains of Cherokee County. It begins on a "divide," which is like a natural ridge or high point that separates two different areas where water flows. In this case, it's near the area where Junaluska Creek also begins.
The Creek's Journey
From its starting point, Harris Creek flows generally towards the northwest. As it travels, it collects water from smaller, unnamed streams that join it along the way. These smaller streams are also tributaries to Harris Creek.
Joining the Valley River
After flowing for about 2.04 mi (3.28 km), Harris Creek reaches its end. It joins the larger Valley River about 0.25 miles southwest of a town called Rhodo, North Carolina. This is where the waters of Harris Creek become part of the Valley River's bigger flow.
Understanding the Harris Creek Area
The area that Harris Creek and its smaller streams drain is called a "watershed" or "drainage basin." Think of it like a giant bowl where all the rain and snow that falls eventually makes its way into Harris Creek.
Size of the Watershed
The Harris Creek watershed covers an area of about 1.63 square miles (4.2 km2). This means that all the water that falls within this 1.63 square mile area will eventually flow into Harris Creek.
Rainfall and Forests
This area gets a lot of rain and snow, about 68.6 inches (or 174 centimeters) of precipitation each year. A cool fact about the Harris Creek watershed is that about 91% of it is covered in forests! This is great because forests help keep the water clean and provide homes for many animals. The trees and plants act like a natural filter, slowing down the water and preventing too much soil from washing into the creek.
