We took a short walk into an area which is generally considered the source of the Columbia River. This loop Trail in the wetlands immediately south of Lake Columbia circles a number of springs that are the source of the Lake and the River. However, the springs are fed by underground seepage from the nearby Kootenay River which, itself, eventually flows into the Columbia.
Back in the early 19th century these flats were an important portage for fur traders on their journey to the lower reaches of the Columbia Basin from their trading houses on the east side of the Rockies.
It is mind bending to think about the journey ahead for this water as it makes its long and twisting way to the Pacific Ocean.
No comments:
Post a Comment