Snake River (Nome, Alaska) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Snake River |
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Mouth of the Snake River at Nome
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 Location of the mouth of the Snake River in Alaska
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| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| District | Nome Census Area |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Seward Peninsula Confluence of Goldbottom Creek and North Fork Snake River 193 ft (59 m) 64°42′05″N 165°24′25″W / 64.70139°N 165.40694°W |
| River mouth | Norton Sound, Bering Sea Nome 13 ft (4.0 m) 64°29′55″N 165°24′47″W / 64.49861°N 165.41306°W |
| Length | 20 mi (32 km) |
The Snake River is a small but important waterway located in Alaska, one of the United States' northernmost states. It flows across the Seward Peninsula, a piece of land that sticks out into the Bering Sea. This river is about 20 mi (32 km) long.
The Snake River starts where two smaller streams, Goldbottom Creek and North Fork Snake River, meet. From there, it flows south until it reaches Norton Sound, which is part of the larger Bering Sea. The river's mouth, where it empties into the sea, is right at the city of Nome. It's located between Nome's main downtown area and its airport.
Where is the Snake River?
The Snake River is found in a very unique part of the world: the Seward Peninsula in Alaska. This area is known for its cold climate and beautiful, wild landscapes. The river plays a key role for the city of Nome. Nome is a historic town on the coast of Alaska. It became famous during the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800s.
The river's mouth is very close to Nome. This makes it easy for people in the town to use the river. It's a natural feature that has been important for travel and trade for a long time.
The River's Journey
The Snake River begins its journey at an elevation of about 193 ft (59 m). This is where its source is located on the Seward Peninsula. As it travels south, the river slowly drops in elevation. It flows through the landscape, picking up water from smaller streams along the way.
Finally, the river reaches the sea at Nome. At its mouth, the elevation is only about 13 ft (4.0 m) above sea level. This low elevation means the river flows gently into the ocean. The river's path is not very long, but it connects the inland areas of the peninsula to the vast Bering Sea.
History and Importance
The Snake River has been important to the people of Nome for many years. In the early 1900s, during the gold rush era, rivers like the Snake River were vital. They were used for transportation, allowing boats to move goods and people. The river also provided access to areas where gold was being mined.
Even today, the river serves the community. It's a place for local boats and offers a connection to the natural environment. The images from the early 1900s show how busy the river's mouth was. People set up tents and boats there, showing its importance for daily life and work.
Gallery
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Boats and tents at the mouth of the Snake River in Nome, around 1900.
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The Snake River Bridge in Nome after a big storm in October 1902.
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A small boat traveling on the Snake River in Nome on September 29, 1900.
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