North Thompson River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Thompson River |
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North Thompson River near Vavenby
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Thompson River's watershed
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| Country | Canada |
| Province | British Columbia |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Thompson Glacier Premier Range, Cariboo Mountains 1,675 m (5,495 ft) 52°40′56″N 119°40′25″W / 52.68222°N 119.67361°W |
| River mouth | Thompson River Kamloops 339 m (1,112 ft) 50°40′55″N 120°20′28″W / 50.68194°N 120.34111°W |
| Length | 365 km (227 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Fraser River |
| Basin size | 20,000 km2 (7,700 sq mi) |
The North Thompson River is an important river in British Columbia, Canada. It is the northern part of the Thompson River, which is the biggest river that flows into the Fraser River. The North Thompson River starts high up in the mountains from the Thompson Glacier.
This river flows generally south through a region called the Shuswap Highland. It eventually reaches the city of Kamloops. Here, it meets the South Thompson River to form the main Thompson River.
The River's Journey
The North Thompson River travels about 365 kilometers (227 miles). For most of its path, a major highway, Highway 5, and the Canadian National Railway run alongside it. Both the highway and railway cross the river a few times.
As the river flows, it passes by several small towns and communities. Some of the well-known places along its banks include Blue River, Clearwater, and Barriere.
Rivers Joining the North Thompson
Many smaller rivers and creeks flow into the North Thompson River. These are called tributaries. Some of these include Canvas Creek, the Albreda River, Thunder River, and Mud Creek. Other important ones are Blue River, Mad River, and Raft River.
The biggest river that joins the North Thompson is the Clearwater River. It meets the North Thompson near the town of Clearwater. The Clearwater River collects water from a large area, including much of Wells Gray Provincial Park. Another tributary is the Barrière River.
Little Hells Gate
One interesting spot along the North Thompson River is called Little Hells Gate. It's like a smaller version of the famous Hells Gate rapids found on the Fraser River.
About 17.4 kilometers (10.8 miles) upstream from the small town of Avola, the North Thompson River gets squeezed. It has to flow through a very narrow opening, only about 30 feet (9 meters) wide. This creates a powerful and exciting rapid. Many companies offer river rafting trips through these rapids, which can be a thrilling adventure!
