Snake River Falls (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Snake River Falls |
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 Location in Colorado
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| Coordinates | 39°38′25″N 105°52′54″W / 39.64028°N 105.88167°W |
| Elevation | 10,571 ft (3,222 m) |
| Watercourse | North Fork Snake River |
Snake River Falls is a beautiful natural waterfall found in the western part of Colorado, USA. It is located west of a popular ski area called Arapahoe Basin. This amazing waterfall is formed by the North Fork Snake River as it flows through the mountainous landscape.
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Exploring Snake River Falls
Snake River Falls is a cool place to visit in the Rocky Mountains. It offers a chance to see nature's power and beauty up close. The falls are part of the North Fork Snake River, which is a branch of the larger Snake River system.
Where is Snake River Falls?
This waterfall is nestled in Summit County, Colorado. It's in a mountainous area, making it a great spot for outdoor adventures. The falls are quite high up, at an elevation of about 10,571 ft (3,222 m) above sea level. This high elevation means the area around the falls often has snow for much of the year.
The exact location of the falls can be found using special geographic coordinates. These are like a unique address for any spot on Earth. For Snake River Falls, the coordinates are 39 degrees, 38 minutes, 25 seconds North and 105 degrees, 52 minutes, 54 seconds West.
How Waterfalls Are Formed
Waterfalls like Snake River Falls are created over a very long time by the power of flowing water. Rivers often flow over different types of rock. Some rocks are harder and stronger, while others are softer and wear away more easily.
As the North Fork Snake River flows, it slowly erodes, or wears away, the softer rock downstream. The harder rock upstream resists this erosion. Over thousands or even millions of years, this process creates a sudden drop or cliff. The water then tumbles over this drop, forming a waterfall.
The constant flow of water at Snake River Falls continues to shape the landscape around it. This natural process shows how powerful and patient nature can be.
The North Fork Snake River
The North Fork Snake River is the water source for Snake River Falls. This river starts high in the mountains and flows downhill, collecting water from melting snow and rain. It's an important part of the local ecosystem, providing water for plants and animals in the area.
Rivers like the North Fork Snake River are vital for the environment. They carry water, nutrients, and even small rocks and sediment. This movement helps to shape valleys and canyons, creating the diverse landscapes we see today. The river's journey through the mountains eventually leads to the dramatic drop that forms Snake River Falls.
