Tennessee River facts for kids
The Tennessee River is a big river in the southeastern United States. It's like a giant curving path, starting in eastern Tennessee. This river is a tributary, which means it flows into another, even bigger river called the Ohio River.
The Tennessee River travels through several states. After starting in Tennessee, it goes into Alabama. For a short distance, it even forms the border between Alabama and Mississippi. Then, it flows back through Tennessee and finally into Kentucky. In Kentucky, near a city called Paducah, it joins the Ohio River.
The area of land that drains water into the Tennessee River is called its watershed. This watershed is huge! It includes parts of Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi.
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The Amazing Tennessee River Journey
The Tennessee River is about 652 miles (1,049 kilometers) long. It's the largest tributary of the Ohio River. The river's path looks like a giant crescent moon. It starts where two other rivers, the Holston and French Broad, meet near Knoxville, Tennessee.
Where Does the River Flow?
The river's journey takes it through many different landscapes. It flows through mountains, valleys, and flat plains. Along its path, it passes by many towns and cities. The river provides water for drinking, farming, and power.
Why Is the Tennessee River Important?
The Tennessee River has been very important for people for a long time. Native American tribes lived along its banks for thousands of years. Later, it helped settlers travel and transport goods. Today, it's still vital for shipping, fishing, and recreation. Many dams have been built on the river to control floods and produce electricity.
Images for kids
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The Market Street Bridge, spanning the Tennessee River in Chattanooga.
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Natchez Trace Parkway, crossing the Tennessee River in Cherokee, Alabama
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Forks-of-the-River in East Knoxville: the French Broad (left) joins the Holston (right) to form the Tennessee (center)
