Pukaskwa River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Pukaskwa River |
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 Location of the mouth of the Pukaskwa River in Ontario
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| Country | Canada |
| Province | Ontario |
| Region | Northern Ontario |
| Districts |
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Gibson Lake Algoma District 464 m (1,522 ft) 48°19′50″N 85°19′43″W / 48.33056°N 85.32861°W |
| River mouth | Lake Superior Homer Township 183 m (600 ft) 48°00′14″N 85°53′33″W / 48.00389°N 85.89250°W |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Great Lakes Basin |
| Tributaries |
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The Pukaskwa River is a beautiful river in Northern Ontario, Canada. It flows through the Thunder Bay District and Algoma District. This river is part of the huge Great Lakes Basin. It eventually flows into Lake Superior at the southern edge of Pukaskwa National Park. The Pukaskwa River is known for its exciting white water sections. Many people enjoy exploring it, especially in the spring.
The name "Pukaskwa" comes from the Ojibwa word "Pukasu". This word refers to cooking the marrow found inside animal bones.
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Exploring the Pukaskwa River
The Pukaskwa River is a great place for adventure. It is a "wilderness river," meaning it flows through wild, untouched areas. This makes it a perfect spot for those who love nature and outdoor activities.
Schist Falls: A Hidden Gem
One special spot along the river is Schist Falls. This waterfall is just before the river reaches Lake Superior. It has a drop of 24 metres (about 79 feet)! The only way to see Schist Falls is by traveling along the river itself. This makes it a unique and rewarding sight for explorers.
Where Does the River Start and End?
The Pukaskwa River begins at Gibson Lake. This lake is right on the border between the Algoma District and the Thunder Bay District.
The River's Journey
- The river leaves Gibson Lake in the Algoma District.
- It then flows southwest into the Thunder Bay District and enters Jarvey Lake.
- The river briefly goes back into the Algoma District, then returns to the Thunder Bay District.
- After leaving Jarvey Lake, it continues southwest.
- It briefly turns west and meets the Fox River, which joins from the right.
- The Pukaskwa River then heads south before resuming its southwest path.
- It enters Homer Township and meets the East Pukaskwa River, which joins from the left.
- Finally, the river flows over the impressive Schist Falls and reaches its mouth at Lake Superior.
River Boundaries
From where the East Pukaskwa River joins, all the way to its mouth, the Pukaskwa River forms the southern border of Pukaskwa National Park.
Rivers That Join the Pukaskwa
Many smaller streams and rivers flow into the Pukaskwa River along its journey. These are called tributaries.
- Robin Creek (joins from the right)
- East Pukaskwa River (joins from the left)
- Perry Creek (joins from the right)
- Fox River (joins from the right)
- Coronation Creek (joins from the left)
