North Fork Wenaha River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Fork Wenaha River |
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 Location of the mouth of the North Fork Wenaha River in Oregon
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| Country | United States |
| State | Washington, Oregon |
| County | Columbia, Wallowa |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Blue Mountains Wenaha–Tucannon Wilderness, Columbia County, Washington 5,885 ft (1,794 m) 46°02′38″N 117°54′39″W / 46.04389°N 117.91083°W |
| River mouth | Wenaha River Wenaha Forks, Wallowa County, Oregon 2,808 ft (856 m) 45°57′02″N 117°47′41″W / 45.95056°N 117.79472°W |
| Length | 16 mi (26 km) |
The North Fork Wenaha River is a cool river, about 16 miles (26 km) long. It flows through the states of Washington and Oregon in the United States. This river is a branch of the larger Wenaha River.
Exploring the North Fork Wenaha River
Where Does It Flow?
The North Fork Wenaha River begins high up in the Blue Mountains. These mountains are in Columbia County, Washington. From there, the river flows mostly southeast.
It travels through a special protected area called the Wenaha–Tucannon Wilderness. Finally, it meets another river, the South Fork Wenaha River. This meeting point is in Wallowa County, Oregon.
When the North Fork and South Fork rivers join, they form the main Wenaha River. The Wenaha River then flows into the Grande Ronde River.
River Branches
The North Fork Wenaha River has one main named branch, or tributary. It is called Deep Saddle Creek. This creek flows into the North Fork just before the river crosses from Washington into Oregon. The South Fork Wenaha River also joins the North Fork from the right side.
Amazing Animals!
The North Fork Wenaha River is very important for many animals. Two types of fish, Chinook salmon and steelhead, use the river to lay their eggs. This process is called spawning.
The wilderness around the river is home to many different creatures. You might find large animals like bighorn sheep and elk. There are also powerful predators like cougars and American black bears. Majestic bald eagles can also be seen flying overhead. This area is a vital habitat for all these species.
