Topock Gorge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Topock Gorge |
|
|---|---|
 Topock Gorge
Location in Arizona
|
|
| Location | Mohave County, Arizona / San Bernardino County, California, United States |
| Coordinates | 34°39′54.95″N 114°26′54.69″W / 34.6652639°N 114.4485250°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Average depth | 15 ft (4.6 m) |
| Surface elevation | 500 ft (150 m) |
Topock Gorge is a beautiful, rocky canyon along the Colorado River. A canyon is a deep valley with steep sides, often carved by a river. This special part of the river is found between Interstate 40 and Lake Havasu.
The town of Needles, California, is located to the northwest of the gorge. It got its name from the tall, thin rock formations that look like needles sticking out of the ground. These natural rock shapes and the river crossing nearby were important landmarks. They helped travelers find their way when they were on the famous historic Route 66.
Havasu National Wildlife Refuge
Topock Gorge is part of the Havasu National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is a protected area managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Its main goal is to protect nature, wildlife, and beautiful scenery. It also helps preserve important historical sites.
What You Can Find There
The refuge protects the natural habitat (home) for many animals. It also works to keep the area's natural beauty safe for everyone to enjoy. You can find ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings) made by the Mojave people in the Gorge. These carvings tell stories from a long time ago.
Fish and Other Animals
The waters of Topock Gorge are home to many different kinds of fish. You might even spot some amphibians too!
- Rainbow Trout
- Largemouth Bass
- Striped Bass
- Crappie
- Sunfish
- Channel Catfish
- Carp
- Bullfrogs (these are amphibians)
If you want to learn more, you can visit the official Havasu National Wildlife Refuge website.
