Sturgeon River (Houghton County, Michigan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sturgeon River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Baraga County, Michigan 46°35′12″N 88°16′05″W / 46.5866°N 88.2681°W |
| River mouth | Portage Lake, Michigan 47°02′06″N 88°29′18″W / 47.0349°N 88.4884°W |
| Length | 106 mi (171 km) |
| Type: | Wild, Scenic |
| Designated: | March 3, 1992 |
The Sturgeon River is a long river in the state of Michigan, USA. It flows for about 106 miles (171 km) through Baraga and Houghton counties. A special part of this river, about 25.0 miles (40.2 km) long, was added to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System in 1992. This means it is protected for its natural beauty and importance.
Where the River Flows
The Sturgeon River starts in Baraga County. It begins on a high, flat area shaped by ancient glaciers. From there, it flows west through the Copper Country State Forest.
Journey Through Forests
The river then enters the Ottawa National Forest near a town called Watton. Inside this national forest, about 25.0 miles (40.2 km) of the river is protected as a "wild and scenic river." This protected section is split into two parts:
- About 16.5 miles (26.6 km) is called "wild." This means it is kept as natural as possible, with very few changes from humans.
- About 8.5 miles (13.7 km) is called "scenic." This part is also beautiful but might have a few more ways for people to enjoy it, like trails.
As the river flows through this area, it crosses back and forth between Baraga and Houghton counties. It also helps create the Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, a wild area with deep canyons. Here, you can find the beautiful Sturgeon Falls.
Path to Portage Lake
After leaving the Ottawa National Forest, the Sturgeon River flows north. It continues to cross the border between Baraga and Houghton counties.
Further along its path, a dam holds back the river's water. This creates a large lake called Prickett Lake, which covers about 810 acres (330 ha). After flowing out of Prickett Lake, the river generally runs next to the western shore of Keweenaw Bay. Finally, the Sturgeon River empties into Portage Lake near the town of Chassell, Michigan.
Home for Fish
The part of the Sturgeon River that is within the Ottawa National Forest is very special for fishing. It is known as a Blue Ribbon Trout Stream. This means it is a top-quality place for catching trout, thanks to its clean water and healthy environment.
