North Fork John Day River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Fork John Day River |
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The river flowing beside Highway 395 in Umatilla County
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 Location of the mouth of the North Fork John Day River in Oregon
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| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| County | Grant County, Umatilla County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Blue Mountains near Mount Ireland, Grant County, Oregon 7,466 ft (2,276 m) 44°51′48″N 118°14′13″W / 44.86333°N 118.23694°W |
| River mouth | John Day River Kimberly, Grant County, Oregon 1,834 ft (559 m) 44°45′22″N 119°38′19″W / 44.75611°N 119.63861°W |
| Length | 107 mi (172 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 1,800 sq mi (4,700 km2) |
| Type: | Wild, Scenic, Recreational |
| Designated: | October 28, 1988 |
The North Fork John Day River is a river in Oregon, USA. It flows for about 107 miles (172 km) and is a branch of the larger John Day River. This river starts in Grant County, about 20 miles (32 km) northwest of Baker City. Its source is high up in the Blue Mountains.
The river generally flows west, passing through a town called Dale. It then turns southwest, going through Monument. Finally, it reaches Kimberly, where it joins the main John Day River.
Contents
Discover the North Fork John Day River
This river is very important for the nature around it. Its upper parts flow through special protected areas. These include the North Fork John Day Wilderness and parts of the Wallowa–Whitman National Forest and Umatilla National Forest.
A Special Wild and Scenic River
A large section of the North Fork John Day River is part of the National Wild and Scenic River system. This means it's protected to keep its natural beauty. About 54 miles (87 km) of the river have this special status.
- The first 27.8 miles (44.7 km) are called "wild." This means they are very natural and untouched.
- The next 10.5 miles (16.9 km) are "scenic." These areas are beautiful and offer great views.
- The last 15.8 miles (25.4 km) are "recreational." These parts are easier to access for fun activities.
Wildlife and Fish in the River
The North Fork John Day River is a key place for fish in northeast Oregon. Many fish that live in the ocean, like salmon and steelhead, travel up this river to lay their eggs. These fish are called anadromous because they migrate from saltwater to freshwater to reproduce.
Amazing Animals You Might See
Many different animals live near the river. If you visit, you might spot some cool wildlife.
- Mule deer: These deer have large ears that look like a mule's.
- Elk: Large members of the deer family.
- Black bears: These bears are common in the forests.
- Peregrine falcons: Very fast birds of prey.
- Bald eagles: America's national bird, often seen near water.
Fun Activities on the River
The North Fork John Day River offers many ways to have fun outdoors. It's a great place for adventures and enjoying nature.
- Hunting and Fishing: Many people come here to hunt and fish.
- Horseback Riding and Hiking: You can explore the trails on horseback or by walking.
- Winter Sports: In winter, you can go snowmobiling and skiing.
- Camping: There are places to set up a tent and camp overnight.
- Whitewater Rafting: For an exciting adventure, you can go rafting on the river's rapids.
