South Fork San Miguel River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Fork San Miguel River |
|
|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of Lake Fork and Howard Fork 37°51′59″N 107°53′02″W / 37.86639°N 107.88389°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with San Miguel River 8,045 ft (2,452 m) 37°56′31″N 107°54′02″W / 37.94194°N 107.90056°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | San Miguel—Dolores—Colorado |
The South Fork San Miguel River is a small but important river in San Miguel County, Colorado. It flows for about 6.5-mile-long (10.5 km). This river is a branch, or tributary, of the larger San Miguel River.
Contents
About the South Fork San Miguel River
The South Fork San Miguel River is located in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. It plays a role in the local environment and the larger river system. Rivers like this one are important for many reasons, including providing water for plants and animals.
Where the River Starts and Ends
This river begins where two smaller streams meet. These streams are called the Lake Fork and the Howard Fork. Imagine two small creeks joining together to form a bigger one! This meeting point is the very start of the South Fork San Miguel River.
The river then flows generally north. It travels through the scenic landscape of San Miguel County. Its journey ends when it meets the main San Miguel River. This meeting point is located west of a well-known town called Telluride.
Its Place in the Big River System
The South Fork San Miguel River is part of a much larger network of waterways. When it joins the San Miguel River, its water continues to flow. The San Miguel River eventually flows into the Dolores River. After that, the Dolores River joins the mighty Colorado River.
This means that a drop of water starting in the South Fork San Miguel River could eventually travel all the way to the Colorado River. The Colorado River is one of the most important rivers in the western United States. It provides water to many states and even parts of Mexico.
The Area Around the River
The region where the South Fork San Miguel River flows is known for its stunning natural beauty. It is a mountainous area with forests and open spaces. This kind of environment is home to many different types of plants and animals.
What Lives Near the River?
Rivers and their banks are vital habitats for wildlife. The water itself supports fish and insects. The plants growing along the riverbanks provide food and shelter for animals. You might find various birds, small mammals, and even larger animals like deer in this area.
The health of the river is important for all these creatures. Clean water and a natural environment help them to thrive. Protecting rivers like the South Fork San Miguel helps protect the amazing wildlife that depends on them.
