Manitowish River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Manitowish River |
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Manitowish River near the historic Six Pause Portage.
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 46°08′10″N 89°34′56″W / 46.1360608°N 89.582093°W |
| River mouth | 1,575 feet (480 m) 46°04′34″N 90°01′47″W / 46.0760598°N 90.0296054°W |
The Manitowish River is a cool river in northern Wisconsin, flowing through Vilas County and Iron County. It starts from Fishtrap Lake near Boulder Junction. This river is special because when it joins with the Bear River, they form the north part of the famous Flambeau River.
For hundreds of years, the Manitowish River was a super important pathway. Native Americans, especially the Ojibwe people, and later fur traders, used it to travel. They would paddle their canoes along the river and then carry them short distances over land, called portages, to connect to other waterways. Today, the river and the many lakes it connects are popular places for people to have fun outdoors.
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A River of History
The Manitowish River has a long and interesting past. Long ago, it was like a highway for people traveling through the forests of northern Wisconsin.
Who Used the River?
- Native Americans: The Ojibwe people, who lived in this area for a very long time, used the river for travel, hunting, and fishing. They knew the river and its connected lakes very well.
- Fur Traders: Later, European fur traders came to the region. They used the river system to move their canoes loaded with furs and supplies. The river helped them trade with Native Americans and explore new areas.
What is a Portage?
A portage is a place where you carry your canoe or boat over land between two bodies of water. The Manitowish River was part of a big network of these routes. This allowed people to travel long distances across the land by connecting different rivers and lakes.
Fun on the River Today
In modern times, the Manitowish River is a favorite spot for many outdoor activities. It's a great place for families and friends to enjoy nature.
Popular Activities
- Paddling: Many people love to canoe or kayak on the river. It's a peaceful way to see the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
- Fishing: The river and its connected lakes are home to many types of fish, making it a popular spot for anglers.
- Boating: Some parts of the river are wide enough for motorboats, allowing people to explore the connected lakes.
What Does the Name Mean?
The name Manitowish comes from the Ojibwe language. Some people believe it means something like "spirit" or "evil spirit." However, the exact meaning and how the name came to be are still debated by historians and language experts. It's a mystery that adds to the river's unique story!
