Rivière du Lac facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rivière du Lac |
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|---|---|
| Country | Canada |
| Province | Quebec |
| Region | Capitale-Nationale |
| City | Quebec (city) |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of two streams Quebec (city) 270 m 46°55′52″N 71°14′10″W / 46.93108°N 71.23615°W |
| River mouth | Montmorency River Quebec (city) 165 m 46°56′04″N 71°11′40″W / 46.93444°N 71.19444°W |
| Length | 4.1 km (2.5 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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The Rivière du Lac (which means River of the Lake in English) is a river in Quebec, Canada. It flows into the Montmorency River from its west side. This river is located on the north shore of the famous St. Lawrence River. It runs through Quebec (city), which is part of the Capitale-Nationale region.
The area around the Rivière du Lac is mostly covered by forests. The main road here is called Lac-des-Roches road. It follows the north side of the river. The most important activity in this valley is forestry, which means cutting down trees for wood. Tourism is also popular, and some farming happens closer to the village of Côte-du-Lac.
The river usually freezes over in early December. It stays frozen until the end of March. It's generally safe to walk on the ice from mid-December to mid-March. The amount of water in the river changes with the seasons. It also changes depending on how much rain or snow falls. The river's water level is highest in March or April due to melting snow.
Where Does the Rivière du Lac Start?
The Rivière du Lac begins where two small streams meet in a forest. This spot is about 270 metres (890 ft) above sea level.
- It is about 3.2 kilometres (2.0 mi) southwest of where the Lac river joins the Montmorency River.
- The river's source is also about 8.7 kilometres (5.4 mi) west of the St. Lawrence River.
How Does the Rivière du Lac Flow?
From its start, the Rivière du Lac flows downhill through a valley between mountains. It travels about 4.1 kilometres (2.5 mi) in total. During its journey, it drops about 105 metres (344 ft) in height.
- First, it flows for about 1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) towards the east. It crosses a lake called "Lac du Chemin de l'Aqueduc". There is a dam at the end of this lake.
- Next, it continues for about 1.1 kilometres (0.68 mi) to the east. It goes through a small, unnamed lake. A stream called Sainte-Marie brook joins the river here.
- Finally, it flows for about 1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) more towards the east. It makes a curve to the north as it passes through the village of Côte-du-Lac. This is where it meets the Montmorency River.
After joining the Montmorency River, the water from the Rivière du Lac travels about 10.2 kilometres (6.3 mi) south. It eventually reaches the northwest bank of the St. Lawrence River.
Why is it Called "River of the Lake"?
The name "Rivière du Lac" (River of the Lake) comes from a special feature. The river flows through a lake called "Lac du Chemin de l'Aqueduc". A dam was built at the end of this lake.
The name "Rivière du Lac" was officially recognized on December 5, 1968. This was done by the Commission de toponymie du Québec, which is like a special group that names places in Quebec.
