West Road River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids West Road River |
|
|---|---|
Location of the West Road River
|
|
| Other name(s) | Blackwater River |
| Country | Canada |
| Province | British Columbia |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Ilgachuz Range 1,877 m (6,158 ft) 52°48′N 125°22′W / 52.800°N 125.367°W |
| River mouth | Fraser River 497 m (1,631 ft) 53°18′38″N 122°52′32″W / 53.31056°N 122.87556°W |
| Length | 280 km (170 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 12,000 km2 (4,600 sq mi) |
The West Road River, also known as the Blackwater River or Tiyakoh, is an important river in British Columbia, Canada. It flows into the Fraser River, which is one of the longest rivers in Canada. The West Road River starts in the Ilgachuz Range mountains and flows across a large flat area called the Fraser Plateau.
This river is about 280 km (170 mi) long. It drains water from an area of about 12,000 km2 (4,600 sq mi). The river drops more than 900 m (3,000 ft) in height from its source to where it joins the Fraser River. Its main branch is the Nazko River. The West Road River helps divide two parts of the Fraser Plateau: the Chilcotin Plateau to the south and the Nechako Plateau to the north.
Contents
A River with a Rich History
The West Road River has been very important throughout history for both First Nations people and Canadian explorers.
Ancient Trade Routes
For hundreds of years, the Dakelh (also known as Carrier) and Tsilhqotʼin peoples used a special trail along the northern side of the river. This trail was part of a larger network called the "Grease Trail". It was used for trading with First Nations communities living near the coast.
The name "Grease Trail" comes from one of the main things traded along this path: eulachon grease. Eulachon are a type of fish, and their oil was very valuable. It was so important that traces of the grease could be found on parts of the trail after centuries of use!
Mackenzie's Journey
In 1793, a famous explorer named Sir Alexander Mackenzie used this very trail. He was on a historic journey to be the first European to travel across North America to the Pacific Ocean. He even crossed the West Road River on his way back. Mackenzie was the one who gave the river its name in 1793.
A Protected River
The West Road (Blackwater) River is so special that the government of British Columbia has named it a heritage river. This means it is recognized for its natural beauty, history, and cultural importance.
Communities Along the River
There are a few communities located near the West Road River. The main settlements include the Kluskus First Nation and the Ulkatcho First Nation (Alexis Family). Close to the river, on the Nazko branch, is the small ranching community of Nazko. This community is centered around the reserve of the Nazko First Nation.
