Swift Creek (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Swift Creek |
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Location of the mouth of Swift Creek in Washington
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| Country | United States |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Table Mountain 4,261 feet (1,299 m) 48°50′35″N 121°42′47″W / 48.8430556°N 121.7130556°W |
| River mouth | Baker River at Baker Lake 725 feet (221 m) 48°43′16″N 121°39′01″W / 48.7211111°N 121.6502778°W |
| Length | 7 mi (11 km) |
Swift Creek is a small river, about 7 miles (11 km) long, located in Whatcom County, Washington, in the U.S.. It flows south and is a tributary of the Baker River. Swift Creek eventually flows into Baker Lake, which is a large reservoir.
This creek is special because its water comes from melting glaciers high up in the mountains.
Where Swift Creek Begins
Swift Creek starts its journey high up in the mountains of Washington State. Its water comes from melting glaciers near Table Mountain and Kulshan Ridge.
Imagine icy water slowly dripping from these glaciers. These tiny streams then come together to create Swift Creek. At its very beginning, the creek is about 4,261 feet (1,299 m) above sea level!
Swift Creek's Journey
After starting from the glaciers, Swift Creek first flows west. As it travels, more streams fed by glaciers join it, making the creek bigger.
Then, it turns and winds its way south-southeast for several miles. Just before Swift Creek reaches Baker Lake, another creek called Morovitz Creek joins it. This means Morovitz Creek adds its water to Swift Creek right before it enters the lake.
There is also a small stream called Park Creek nearby that flows into Baker Lake. However, it is important not to confuse Park Creek with Swift Creek's path.
Where Swift Creek Ends
Swift Creek finishes its journey by flowing into Baker Lake. This lake is actually a reservoir, which is a large artificial lake used to store water.
The creek joins the Baker River right at Baker Lake. At this point, the creek is much lower, about 725 feet (221 m) above sea level. A road called NFD 11, also known as Baker Lake Road, crosses Swift Creek close to where it enters the lake. This spot is just downstream from another creek called Shannon Creek.
