Martin River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Martin River |
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 Location of the mouth of the Martin River in Alaska
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| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| Borough | Kenai Peninsula |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Kenai Mountains, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Portlock Glacier 1,810 ft (550 m) 59°40′28″N 150°58′02″W / 59.67444°N 150.96722°W |
| River mouth | Kachemak Bay 20 miles (32 km) northeast of Homer 0 ft (0 m) 59°45′46″N 151°00′17″W / 59.76278°N 151.00472°W |
| Length | 7 mi (11 km) |
The Martin River is a small but important stream located in the amazing state of Alaska, in the United States. It flows across the Kenai Peninsula, which is a large piece of land that sticks out into the Pacific Ocean. This river is about 7 miles (11 km) long.
Contents
About the Martin River
The Martin River starts high up in the Kenai Mountains. These mountains are part of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge, a special protected area. The river then flows north until it reaches Kachemak Bay. This bay is a part of the larger Gulf of Alaska.
Where the River Begins
The journey of the Martin River starts at a place called Portlock Glacier. A glacier is a huge, slow-moving river of ice. As the ice melts, it forms water that becomes the beginning of the Martin River. This source is about 1,810 ft (550 m) (552 meters) above sea level.
The River's Path
From the glacier, the Martin River flows downhill. It travels about 7 miles (11 km) (11 kilometers) through the Alaskan wilderness. The upper parts of the river are inside the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is a safe home for many animals and plants.
Where the River Ends
The Martin River eventually flows into Kachemak Bay. This bay is known for its beautiful views and rich wildlife. The mouth of the river is about 20 miles (32 km) (32 kilometers) northeast of a town called Homer. Homer is a popular place for fishing and enjoying nature.
Nature Around the River
The area around the Martin River is wild and beautiful. It is part of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge protects many different kinds of animals. You might find moose, bears, and various types of birds living here. The river itself is also home to fish.
The refuge helps keep the natural environment safe. It makes sure that animals have a place to live and that the river stays clean. This is important for the health of the entire ecosystem.
