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Rapid River (Alaska-Yukon) facts for kids

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Rapid River
Rapid River (Alaska-Yukon) is located in Alaska
Rapid River (Alaska-Yukon)
Location of the mouth of Rapid River in Alaska
Countries
  • Canada
  • United States
Territory Yukon
State Alaska
Physical characteristics
Main source Lahchah Mountain
Northwest Yukon, Yukon, Canada
745 m (2,444 ft)
67°42′13″N 140°43′01″W / 67.70361°N 140.71694°W / 67.70361; -140.71694
River mouth Porcupine River
Yukon–Koyukuk Census Area, Alaska, United States
197 m (646 ft)
67°16′37″N 141°37′58″W / 67.27694°N 141.63278°W / 67.27694; -141.63278
Length 75 km (47 mi)

The Rapid River is a river that flows through two countries. It starts in Yukon, Canada, and then crosses into Alaska, United States.

What's in a Name?

The Rapid River got its name because of how fast its water moves. Near its end, there are many "boulder stream rapids." These are like small waterfalls or very fast-moving sections of water filled with rocks. They stretch for about three-quarters of a mile upstream from where the river joins another one.

In 1890, the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey first called it "Sucker River." However, the name "Rapid River" was used earlier in 1888 by R. G. McConnell. He worked for the Geological Survey of Canada. His description of the fast-moving water led to the river keeping its current name.

Where Does the Rapid River Flow?

Starting Point

The Rapid River begins high up on Lahchah Mountain. This mountain is located in the northwest part of Yukon, Canada. The river's source is about 745 meters (2,444 feet) above sea level. This starting point is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of a place called Old Crow.

Journey to Alaska

From its source, the river flows west for about 15 kilometers (9 miles). It then reaches the border between Canada and the United States. Here, the Rapid River crosses into Yukon–Koyukuk Census Area in Alaska. At this point, the river is about 476 meters (1,562 feet) above sea level.

Reaching the Porcupine River

The Rapid River continues its journey through Alaska. It eventually flows into the Porcupine River. This meeting point is called the mouth of the Rapid River. It is about 197 meters (646 feet) above sea level. This spot is also about 12.8 kilometers (8 miles) north of a small settlement known as Old Rampart.

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