Rock Creek (Owens River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rock Creek |
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Rock Creek with the Sierra Crest in the background
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 Location of the mouth of Rock Creek in California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Region | Mono County |
| District | Inyo National Forest |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Rock Creek Lake John Muir Wilderness, Inyo National Forest 37°27′20″N 118°44′08″W / 37.4554886°N 118.7356796°W |
| River mouth | Owens River Owens River Gorge 37°33′40″N 118°40′48″W / 37.5610431°N 118.6801252°W |
| Length | 30 mi (48 km)Rock Creek plus Lower Rock Creek |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Long Valley—Crowley Lake Watershed |
| Tributaries |
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Rock Creek is a cool stream that flows through eastern California. It starts high up in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada range. From there, it makes its way down to join the Owens River.
This stream is located in Mono County. The very top part of Rock Creek is found within the John Muir Wilderness. This wilderness area is part of both the Sierra National Forest and the Inyo National Forest.
Where Does Rock Creek Flow?
Rock Creek gets its water from the Sierra Crest. This is the highest part of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Water flows into the creek from peaks like Bear Creek Spire, Mount Abbot, Mount Mills, Ruby Peak, and Mount Starr.
All this water comes together in a beautiful area called Little Lakes Valley. From there, it flows into Rock Creek Lake.
Rock Creek's Journey to the Owens River
After leaving Rock Creek Lake, the stream flows north. It passes by a spot known as Tom's Place, which is close to U.S. Route 395. This location is less than two miles from the Owens River.
However, Rock Creek doesn't join the Owens River right away. Instead, it turns southeast. It then flows side-by-side with the Owens River for a while. This part of the stream is often called "Lower Rock Creek" on maps.
Finally, Rock Creek meets the Owens River near the entrance to the Owens River Gorge.
How Long is Rock Creek?
The part of Rock Creek that is upstream from Tom's Place is about 15.9 mi (25.6 km) long. The "Lower Rock Creek" section, which is below Tom's Place, flows for another 14.1 mi (22.7 km) before reaching the Owens River. This means the entire Rock Creek, including its lower section, is about 30 mi (48 km) long.
