West Branch Laramie River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids West Branch Laramie River |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 40°37′44″N 105°56′28″W / 40.62889°N 105.94111°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with Laramie 40°40′28″N 105°51′30″W / 40.67444°N 105.85833°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Laramie—North Platte—Platte— Missouri—Mississippi |
The West Branch Laramie River is a small river in Colorado, USA. It is about 6.0-mile-long (9.7 km). This river is a branch, or "tributary," of the larger Laramie River. It flows through a beautiful natural area called Larimer County, Colorado.
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About the West Branch Laramie River
This river is an important part of the local water system. It helps carry water from high up in the mountains down to bigger rivers. Even though it's not very long, it plays a role in the environment around it.
Where Does It Start?
The West Branch Laramie River begins its journey in a special place called Island Lake. This lake is located within the Rawah Wilderness. The Rawah Wilderness is a protected area known for its wild nature and stunning mountain views. It's a great place for animals and plants to live undisturbed.
Where Does It Go?
After leaving Island Lake, the river flows through another body of water called Carey Lake. From there, it continues to flow towards the northeast. Its journey ends when it meets and joins the main Laramie River. This meeting point is called a "confluence."
Part of a Bigger River Family
The West Branch Laramie River is like a small stream that joins a bigger river, which then joins an even bigger river, and so on. Here is how its water travels:
- First, it joins the Laramie River.
- The Laramie River then flows into the North Platte River.
- The North Platte River is a part of the Platte River.
- The Platte River eventually flows into the mighty Missouri River.
- Finally, the Missouri River joins the huge Mississippi River, which flows all the way to the ocean!
This shows how even a small river like the West Branch Laramie is connected to a vast network of waterways across the country.
