Thunder Creek (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Thunder Creek |
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Thunder Creek
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| Country | US |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Near Park Creek Pass 5,590 ft (1,700 m) 48°35′29″N 122°04′52″W / 48.59139°N 122.08111°W |
| River mouth | Diablo Lake 1,200 ft (370 m) 43°36′01″N 122°14′05″W / 43.60028°N 122.23472°W |
| Length | 15 mi (24 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Tributaries |
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Thunder Creek is a beautiful stream found entirely within the North Cascades National Park and the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. Both of these amazing natural areas are located in the state of Washington, USA.
This creek is special because of its bright, milky turquoise color. This unique look comes from tiny rock particles that are carried in the water. Thunder Creek is also famous for a popular hiking trail that follows its path.
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Where Thunder Creek Flows
Thunder Creek starts its journey high up in the mountains. Its source is near a place called Park Creek Pass. This is in the southern part of North Cascades National Park.
From there, the creek flows mostly north. It travels about 15 miles (24 kilometers) through the park's wild landscapes. Finally, Thunder Creek empties into Diablo Lake. Diablo Lake is a large reservoir that is part of the Ross Lake National Recreation Area.
Before the Diablo Dam was built, Thunder Creek used to flow directly into the Skagit River. The dam changed the landscape and created Diablo Lake.
Why is Thunder Creek Turquoise?
The most striking thing about Thunder Creek is its amazing turquoise color. This isn't magic, it's science! The color comes from something called "rock flour."
Rock flour is made when glaciers move slowly over rocks. They grind the rocks into a very fine powder, almost like flour. When this powder mixes with water, it makes the water look cloudy and gives it a beautiful blue-green color.
Many glaciers feed into Thunder Creek and its smaller streams. One of these is the huge Boston Glacier, which is the largest glacier in North Cascades National Park. As these glaciers melt, they send their rock flour into the water, making Thunder Creek glow with its special color.
Exploring Thunder Creek
If you love hiking and nature, Thunder Creek is a great place to visit. A well-known hiking trail runs right alongside the creek for its entire length. This trail is a popular spot for adventurers.
As you hike, you can enjoy the stunning views of the creek's turquoise water. You'll also be surrounded by the tall trees and rugged mountains of the North Cascades. It's a fantastic way to experience the wild beauty of this national park.
Remember to always be prepared when hiking in national parks. Check the weather and bring plenty of water and snacks.
Images for kids
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Thunder Creek's unique turquoise color comes from glacier melt.
