Mancos River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mancos River |
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|---|---|
Mancos River, San Juan River confluence (Four Corners)
(Carrizo Mountains at southwest) |
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of West Mancos River and East Mancos River 37°21′30″N 108°15′12″W / 37.35833°N 108.25333°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with San Juan 4,639 ft (1,414 m) 36°59′00″N 108°58′50″W / 36.98333°N 108.98056°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | San Juan—Colorado |
The Mancos River is a river in the southwestern United States. It flows for about 85.4-mile-long (137.4 km). This river is a branch, or tributary, of the San Juan River.
The Mancos River starts where two smaller rivers meet. These are the West Mancos River and the East Mancos River. This meeting point is close to the town of Mancos, Colorado. The river then travels southwest. It eventually joins the San Juan River. This happens near the famous Four Corners Monument in New Mexico.
What's in a Name?
The name Mancos has an interesting story. It comes from a Spanish word. This word means "one-armed." The river got its name after an event long ago. A horse rider was crossing the river. During the crossing, he hurt his hand. Because of this incident, the river was named Mancos. It was also once known as El Rio de San Lazaro.
Where Does the River Flow?
The Mancos River begins in the mountains of Colorado. It flows through beautiful landscapes. These include parts of Montezuma County in Colorado. It then crosses into San Juan County in New Mexico. The river's journey ends when it flows into the San Juan River. The San Juan River then joins the much larger Colorado River.
The River's Importance
Rivers like the Mancos are very important. They provide water for many things. This includes farms and local wildlife. They also create homes for different plants and animals. The Mancos River basin is part of a larger area. This area has a rich history. It was once traveled by people using the Old Spanish Trail (trade route). This was an important trade route long ago.
See also
In Spanish: Río Mancos para niños
