Mill Creek (Lower Merion, Pennsylvania) facts for kids
Mill Creek is a small stream, about 6.6 miles (10.6 kilometers) long. It flows into the Schuylkill River in Lower Merion Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, United States.
Mill Creek is an important part of the local environment. It provides a home for many animals. The creek also has a rich history with old mills along its banks.
Contents
Where Does Mill Creek Start?
Mill Creek has two main parts, like two arms joining together.
The North Branch
The northern part of the creek starts in several places. These spots are north of Lancaster Avenue (also known as U.S. Route 30) in a town called Villanova.
The South Branch
The southern part of the creek begins near Ardmore. A smaller stream called Trout Run also flows into this branch, making it bigger.
Where the Branches Meet
The two branches of Mill Creek come together. They meet near where Old Gulph Road and Mill Creek Road cross. From there, the creek flows east. It then joins the Schuylkill River. This meeting point is just before the Gladwyne exit (Exit 337) of the Schuylkill Expressway. It's also near the Flat Rock Dam.
Interesting Places Along the Creek
There are a few cool spots to know about along Mill Creek.
Dove Lake
Dove Lake is a small lake next to the north branch of Mill Creek. You can find it just before Old Gulph Road crosses the creek.
The Ford Crossing
Where Old Gulph Road crosses the creek, there's a special crossing called a ford. A ford is a shallow place where you can drive or walk across a river. This ford has a gate. The gate often closes when the water is too high. This keeps people safe from dangerous floods.
Historic Mills
The lower part of Mill Creek has some old buildings. These include historic mills and other structures. You can see them along Mill Creek Road and nearby Rose Glen Road. These mills used the creek's water power long ago.
Mill Creek Road
Mill Creek Road follows the south branch of the creek. It starts near Montgomery Avenue in Ardmore. The road then follows the lower part of the creek all the way to River Road, which is by the Schuylkill River. Most of the road is on the right side of the creek. It crosses the creek twice near where the north and south branches meet.
What Animals Live in Mill Creek?
Mill Creek is home to different kinds of wildlife. It's a great place for nature lovers!
Fish and Other Water Creatures
- Creek Chubbs: These are a common type of fish found in the creek.
- Snapping Turtles: You might spot these turtles swimming or resting by the water.
- Salamanders: These amphibians also live in and around the creek.
- Crayfish: These small, lobster-like creatures crawl along the creek bed.
These animals all depend on the clean water of Mill Creek to survive.
