Smith Creek (Chattahoochee River tributary) facts for kids

Smith Creek, a smaller river that flows into the Chattahoochee River in White County, Georgia

Smith Creek is a cool stream in White County, Georgia. It's like a smaller river that flows into a bigger one. Smith Creek is a "tributary" of the famous Chattahoochee River. The creek is about 6.65 miles (10.70 km) long.

What's in a Name?

Smith Creek got its name from an early settler. His name was Nathan Smith. He was a pioneer who lived in the area a long time ago.

Where Does Smith Creek Flow?

This map shows Smith Creek and the Chattahoochee River.

This map shows Smith Creek and its watershed (pink area). You can also see the Chattahoochee River.

Smith Creek starts in the very top corner of White County, Georgia. This is where White County meets Habersham County. It begins near Hickorynut Ridge and south of Tray Mountain.

The creek's journey starts at the bottom of Anna Ruby Falls. This is where York Creek and East Fork Smith Creek join together. When two streams meet, it's called a "confluence."

Smith Creek's Path

The creek flows south and forms a lake called Unicoi Lake. This lake is a "reservoir," which means it's a place where water is collected and stored. Unicoi State Park Lake Dam created this lake. It's part of Unicoi State Park.

After the lake, Smith Creek turns sharply west. It then flows into the Chattahoochee River. This happens in the northern part of Helen. You can see where it joins the river right off of State Route 75.

What is a Watershed?

A "watershed" is an area of land. All the rain and snow that falls in this area drains into a specific river or creek. It's like a big bowl that collects water for a stream.

Smith Creek's Watershed

The area that drains into Smith Creek is called a "sub-watershed." The United States Geological Survey (USGS) gives it a special number: HUC 031300010102. It's named the Smith Creek-Chattahoochee River sub-watershed.

This watershed covers about 27 square miles. It's located north of Helen and east of the Chattahoochee River.

Other Creeks in the Watershed

Besides Smith Creek, two other creeks help drain this area.

• Spoilcane Creek is to the west of Smith Creek. It is about 5.67 miles (9.12 km) long.
• Horton Creek is to the south. It is about 2.66 miles (4.28 km) long.

Both Spoilcane Creek and Horton Creek flow into Smith Creek. Then, Smith Creek carries all that water to the Chattahoochee River.