Rio Hondo (Northern New Mexico) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rio Hondo |
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Children near the Rio Hondo, Taos County, 1941
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 Location of the mouth of the Rio Hondo in New Mexico
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| Country | United States |
| State | New Mexico |
| County | Taos |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Above Taos Ski Valley Taos Mountains 10,840 ft (3,300 m) 36°36′40″N 105°25′42″W / 36.61111°N 105.42833°W |
| River mouth | Rio Grande Rio Grande Gorge 6,840 ft (2,080 m) 36°32′11″N 105°39′37″W / 36.53639°N 105.66028°W |
| Length | 20 mi (32 km) |
The Rio Hondo is a river located in northern New Mexico. It's like a smaller stream that flows into a bigger river. The Rio Hondo is a "tributary" of the famous Rio Grande. This means it joins the Rio Grande, adding its water to the larger river.
The river stretches for about 20 miles (32 kilometers). It starts high up in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This area is near Wheeler Peak and the Taos Ski Valley. The river then flows down until it meets the Rio Grande in the Rio Grande Gorge. This meeting point is just west of a town called Arroyo Hondo.
What Does Rio Hondo Mean?
The name Rio Hondo comes from the Spanish language. In Spanish, Río means "river" and Hondo means "deep." So, the name Rio Hondo means "deep river."
Fun Things to Do at Rio Hondo
The Rio Hondo is a special place for nature lovers. Many people enjoy visiting its banks. It's known as a great spot for bird-watching. You can see many different kinds of birds there.
The river is also a favorite place for fishing. Anglers (people who fish) come here to catch fish. It's a peaceful way to enjoy the outdoors.
Keeping the River Healthy
Rivers like the Rio Hondo are important for nature and people. It's vital to keep them clean and healthy. Scientists and environmental groups often study rivers. They want to make sure the water stays safe for plants, animals, and people.
For example, in 2005, a group called the New Mexico Environment Department studied the Rio Hondo. They looked at how water from the Taos Ski Valley area affected the river. Their goal was to ensure the river's water quality remained good. This helps protect all the creatures that live in and around the river. It also keeps the river beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
