Wolf Creek (Mineral County, Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wolf Creek |
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The creek at Forest Road 648 (West Fork Road) on the west side of Wolf Creek Pass looking back towards the pass.
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Country | United States |
State | Colorado |
County | Mineral County |
Physical characteristics | |
Main source | Wolf Creek Pass 37°28′20″N 106°48′33″W / 37.47222°N 106.80917°W |
River mouth | West Fork San Juan River Mineral County, Colorado 7,785 ft (2,373 m) 37°25′50″N 106°53′36″W / 37.43056°N 106.89333°W |
Length | 8.3 miles (13.4 km) |
Basin features | |
Progression | West Fork San Juan—San Juan—Colorado |
Wolf Creek is a small stream located in Mineral County, Colorado, in the United States. It is famous because it gives its name to the well-known Wolf Creek Pass, a high mountain pass in the Rocky Mountains.
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About Wolf Creek
Wolf Creek is a natural waterway that flows through a beautiful part of Colorado. It is an important part of the local environment. The creek helps support plants and animals that live nearby.
Where is Wolf Creek Located?
Wolf Creek starts high up in the mountains at Wolf Creek Pass. This pass is a very high point in the San Juan Mountains, which are part of the larger Rocky Mountains. From its source, the creek flows downhill.
Journey of the Water
The water from Wolf Creek eventually flows into the West Fork San Juan River. This river then joins the main San Juan River. Finally, the San Juan River flows into the mighty Colorado River, which is one of the longest rivers in North America. This means that the water from Wolf Creek travels a long way!
How Long is Wolf Creek?
Wolf Creek is not a very long stream. It stretches for about 8.3 miles (which is about 13.4 kilometers). Even though it's not huge, it plays a key role in the local water system.
Why is it Called Wolf Creek?
The creek is named after Wolf Creek Pass. Historically, areas like this might have been named for animals seen there, such as wolves. The pass is a major route through the mountains, and the creek flows from it.