North Fork Little Thompson River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Fork Little Thompson River |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 40°22′02″N 105°25′03″W / 40.36722°N 105.41750°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with Little Thompson 5,761 ft (1,756 m) 40°18′08″N 105°18′06″W / 40.30222°N 105.30167°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Little Thompson Big Thompson South Platte—Platte Missouri—Mississippi |
The North Fork Little Thompson River is a small river in Colorado, United States. It is an important part of the local water system. This river flows through Larimer County, Colorado, which is in the northern part of the state.
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About the North Fork Little Thompson River
The North Fork Little Thompson River is a "tributary." This means it is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. In this case, it flows into the Little Thompson River. Think of it like a branch joining a bigger tree trunk.
This river starts high up in the mountains. It then travels southeast. Its journey ends when it meets the Little Thompson River. This meeting point is called a "confluence."
Where Does It Start?
The North Fork Little Thompson River begins its journey in the Roosevelt National Forest. This forest is a beautiful natural area. It is known for its tall trees and mountain landscapes. The water here is often very clear and cold.
The exact starting point, or "source," is a specific spot in the forest. From there, the water begins to flow downhill. It gathers more water as it moves.
Where Does It Go?
After flowing for some distance, the North Fork Little Thompson River reaches its end. It joins the Little Thompson River. This happens in Larimer County. The elevation at this meeting point is about 5,761 feet (1,756 meters) above sea level.
Part of a Bigger Water Journey
The water from the North Fork Little Thompson River travels a very long way. Once it joins the Little Thompson River, it becomes part of an even bigger system.
- First, it flows into the Little Thompson River.
- Then, the Little Thompson River flows into the Big Thompson River.
- Next, the Big Thompson River joins the South Platte River.
- The South Platte River then flows into the Platte River.
- Finally, the Platte River joins the mighty Missouri River.
- The Missouri River then flows into the huge Mississippi River.
- The Mississippi River eventually empties into the Gulf of Mexico.
So, a single drop of water from the North Fork Little Thompson River could travel across much of the United States!
