Pasayten River facts for kids

The Pasayten River is a river that flows through two countries: the United States and Canada. It is a smaller river, called a tributary, that eventually joins the Similkameen River. The Similkameen River then flows into the Okanagan River, which finally empties into the mighty Columbia River. This means the Pasayten River is part of the huge Columbia River water system.

Journey of the Pasayten River

The Pasayten River starts its journey in the beautiful North Cascades mountains. These mountains are part of the larger Cascade Range. The river generally flows north, making its way through the wild and scenic Pasayten Wilderness. It then crosses the border between the United States and Canada.

Where the River Begins: The Forks

The Pasayten River actually starts when two smaller rivers, called forks, come together. These are the West Fork Pasayten River and the Middle Fork Pasayten River.

• The West Fork begins on the northern slopes of Slate Peak. It flows north until it meets the Middle Fork at a spot called Three Forks.
• The Middle Fork starts in Slate Pass. It also flows north to join the West Fork at Three Forks.
• At Three Forks, another stream called Rock Creek also joins in. This is why the name "Three Forks" makes a lot of sense!

The Main River's Path

Once the West and Middle Forks meet at Three Forks, they form the main Pasayten River. Before it crosses into Canada, the river is also joined by the East Fork Pasayten River.

• The East Fork starts at Dollar Watch Pass. It flows west and picks up water from Big Hidden Lake before joining the main Pasayten River.

After crossing the international border, the Pasayten River continues to flow north. It passes just east of E. C. Manning Provincial Park. Finally, the Pasayten River joins the Similkameen River near a place called East Gate, which is located along the Hope-Princeton Highway.

Smaller Streams Joining the Pasayten

Many smaller streams, or tributaries, flow into the Pasayten River along its path. These streams add more water to the river as it travels.

Streams in the United States

Streams in Canada

• Peeve Creek
• Calcite Creek