Leland River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Leland River |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Lake Leelanau 45°00′55″N 85°45′31″W / 45.0153°N 85.7586°W |
| River mouth | Lake Michigan 45°01′25″N 85°45′44″W / 45.0236°N 85.7623°W |
| Length | 0.9 mi (1.4 km) |
The Leland River is a short but important river located in the U.S. state of Michigan. It flows through the charming community of Leland. This river is only about 0.9 miles (1.4 km) (1.4 km) long. It acts as a vital link between two larger bodies of water: Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan.
A Short but Important River
The Leland River winds its way through the heart of Leland. Along its banks, you can see historic Fishtown. This area is famous for its old fishing shanties and docks. The river also passes by a dam and two popular restaurants. Even though it's short, the river plays a big role in the local environment and history.
The Historic Dam
A significant feature of the Leland River is its dam. This dam was built way back in 1854. When it was constructed, the dam caused the water level in the river and in Lake Leelanau to rise. The water level increased by as much as 12 feet (3.7 m) (3.7 m). This change helped to create the beautiful waterways we see today.
Boating on the River
Because of the dam, boats cannot travel directly from Lake Leelanau to Lake Michigan. However, this doesn't stop people from enjoying the water! Special boat launches are available on both sides of the dam. This allows boaters to easily put their boats in the water and explore either the river or the lakes.
River's Former Name
The Leland River was once known by a different name. Many people used to call it the Carp River. You might still hear this name used by locals even today. It's a reminder of the river's long history in the area.
