R: River

Like so very many communities, we have a river. It is the Cache la Poudre, as it became known in the 1820s when French explorers, overcome by a blizzard, had to bury some of their gunpowder along the banks. Most of us just call it the Poudre. It winds through town from west to east before joining the South Platte River 5 miles past Greeley, Colorado.


For hundreds of years, water from the Poudre River supported Native Americans, trappers, traders, soldiers, homesteaders, farmers, and ranchers. These days, the river is frequented by fly-fishermen (and women), rafters, kayakers, and anyone who just wants to splash around, which is my favorite thing to do. Ten miles of multi-use trails alongside offer many opportunities to enjoy the river without getting wet.

The river is different in every season. Because so much of its flow is determined by snow runoff coming from the mountains, it tends to run higher and faster in the spring and slower and mellower in the heat of the summer. Forty-five of its 126 miles are designated as a River Corridor National Heritage Area, the only one in Colorado. 





I hope you are able to enjoy some rest and relaxation tomorrow before we pick up with the letter S on Monday! 





Comments

Inger said…
To have a river is such a good thing. Here we have a creek, called Cache Creek, but it has only been filled with water once in the seven years we have lived here.
Anonymous said…
We have a river too, the Themes, of course, because I live in London..not the real one..the other one in Ontario. I love taking pics of our river and your photos are lovely
orneryswife said…
Beautiful pictures! Here we have the Arkansas River, but I don't spend much time near or on it. It isn't nearly as lovely as yours!
tm
Unknown said…
Love that peace sign in the water!
Anonymous said…
That's a fun story about how the river got its name. Makes me wonder what happens when water and gunpowder mix. ;) Thanks for sharing.
Unknown said…
What lovely photos. Just stopping by for the A-Z Challenge. Please check us out and sign up to follow if you like what you see. Juliet atCity Muse Country Muse
Your photos are lovely! The river looks like perfect place to splash around barefoot.
I love the rivers! :) I have spent many hours on the beautiful rivers throughout CO. rafting and fishing. So very beautiful :) And the Poudre is so amazing...

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