Spruce Creek (Larimer County, Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Spruce Creek |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 40°20′05″N 105°43′30″W / 40.33472°N 105.72500°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with Big Thompson 8,419 ft (2,566 m) 40°21′02″N 105°39′50″W / 40.35056°N 105.66389°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Big Thompson South Platte—Platte Missouri—Mississippi |
Spruce Creek is a cool stream, or small river, located in Larimer County, Colorado. It's like a smaller helper river because it flows into a bigger one called the Big Thompson River. Imagine its water starting high in the mountains and then traveling a long way!
What is Spruce Creek?
Spruce Creek is a tributary, which means it's a stream or river that flows into a larger stream or river. Its journey begins high up in the mountains, specifically near a spot called Sprague Pass. This area is part of the amazing Rocky Mountain National Park.
Where Does it Flow?
After starting near Sprague Pass, Spruce Creek flows towards the east. It carves its way through a beautiful area known as Spruce Canyon. As it continues its journey, it eventually meets and joins the Big Thompson River. This meeting point is called a confluence, and it happens in Forest Canyon.
Spruce Creek's Long Journey
Even though Spruce Creek is a smaller stream, its water travels a very long way! Once it joins the Big Thompson River, its water becomes part of a much bigger river system.
- First, it flows into the Big Thompson River.
- Then, the Big Thompson River joins the South Platte River.
- The South Platte River then flows into the Platte River.
- The Platte River eventually connects with the mighty Missouri River.
- Finally, the Missouri River flows into the huge Mississippi River, which then empties into the Gulf of Mexico. So, a drop of water from Spruce Creek could end up in the ocean!
