Henrys Fork (Green River tributary) facts for kids

Henrys Fork is a river that flows for about 61 miles (98 kilometers) through the states of Utah and Wyoming. It's like a smaller stream that eventually joins a bigger river, in this case, the Green River.

All About Henrys Fork River

Where Does Henrys Fork Flow?

The Henrys Fork river starts high up in the Uinta Mountains in Utah. From there, it flows north into Wyoming. Then, it makes a turn and heads east, passing by small towns like Lonetree, Burntfork, and McKinnon.

Near a town called Manila, Utah, the river makes a big loop. It turns south and flows back into Utah. Finally, it empties into the Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which is a large lake created by a dam. This is where Henrys Fork meets the Green River.

What Are Its Main Branches?

Just like a tree has branches, a river can have smaller rivers or streams that flow into it. These are called "tributaries." The main tributaries of Henrys Fork are Beaver Creek and Burnt Fork. Both of these smaller streams also begin in the Uinta Mountains.

How Is the River Used?

The water from Henrys Fork is mostly used to help plants grow. Farmers use the river's water to irrigate their fields. This means they bring water to dry land to help crops or grass grow. In this area, the water is mainly used to water pasture, which is land covered in grass where animals like cows or sheep can graze.

Who Was Henrys Fork Named After?

Many people believe that Henrys Fork was named after a man named Andrew Henry. He was a famous fur trader and explorer from the early 1800s. He explored many parts of the American West.

A Bit of History: The First Rendezvous

Something very important happened along Henrys Fork a long time ago. In 1825, the very first annual rendezvous was held here. A "rendezvous" was a big meeting place for fur trappers and Native American traders. They would gather once a year to trade furs, buy supplies, and share stories. It was a lively event that helped shape the history of the American West.