The Colorado River flows from the Rocky Mountains through the Grand Canyon to
the Gulf of California between Baja and Sonora in a southwestern direction for
1,450 miles - 2,330 km; it drains an expansive, arid watershed that
encompasses parts of seven U.S. and two Mexican states. With dramatic canyons
and whitewater rapids, the Colorado is a vital source of water for agricultural
and urban areas.
The river and its tributaries are controlled by an extensive system of
dams, reservoirs, and aqueducts, which in most years divert its entire flow to
furnish irrigation and municipal water supply for almost 40 million people
both inside and outside the watershed. Its large flow generates hydroelectric
power.
Native
Americans have inhabited the
Colorado River basin for at least 8,000 years. Between 2,000 and 1,000 years ago,
it fostered large agricultural civilizations which collapsed from severe
drought and poor land use practices. Europeans first entered the Colorado Basin
in the 16th century. Large-scale settlement of the lower basin began
latter 19th century, with steamboat landings along the Colorado River
that linked to horse drawn wagons. Gold strikes took place in the 1860s and
1870s.
Development
of the river basin began in the 20th century with guidelines
established in a series of domestic and international treaties known as the Law of the River with hydraulic
engineering projects. Most of the major dams were built between 1910 and 1970;
Hoover Dam was completed in 1935.
The
Upper River is a swift whitewater
stream ranging from 200 to 500 feet - 60 to 150 m - wide, and depths
ranging from 6 to 30 feet = 2 to 9 m. The Colorado Plateau is a vast
desert centered at the Four Corners of the southwestern United States.
Planning
Your Trip assumes
uniquely local dimensions in the places you visit, rooted in the local economy,
history and traditions. TEMA develops personalized itineraries based on your preferences; we leverage an
in-depth knowledge of your destinations with superior client service throughout
your trip.
Your anchor locations when visiting the
Colorado River include
In
Utah the Colorado is
characterized by narrow canyons and unique folds created by the tilting of
sedimentary rock layers along faults. Here, the San Juan River joins the
Colorado from the east. The Colorado then enters northern Arizona where Glen
Canyon forms Lake Powell.
Lee’s
Ferry was an important crossing
for early explorers and settlers and since the early 20th century
the principal point where Colorado River flows are measured for apportionment
to the seven U.S. and two Mexican states in the basin.
Lake
Mead is the largest reservoir in
the continental United States, formed by Hoover Dam and southeast of Las Vegas.
The Lower Colorado River Valley LCRV is a desert region dependent on irrigation,
agriculture and tourism and is also home to Indian Reservations.
The Imperial
Valley is the most Productive Winter Agricultural Region in the United States
Tributaries
The Colorado is joined by over 25 significant tributaries, of which the Green
River is the largest by both length and discharge. The Gila River is the second
longest and drains a greater area than the Green. Both the Gunnison and San
Juan rivers, which derive most of their water from Rocky Mountains snow melt,
contribute more water.
Recreation
the Colorado is one of the most desirable whitewater
rivers in the United States. Grand Canyon trips typically range from one to
eighteen days for commercial trips and from two to twenty-five days for private
trips. Several other sections of the river and its tributaries are popular
whitewater runs, and many of these are also served by commercial outfitters. Eleven
U.S. national parks are in the watershed, in addition to many national forests,
state parks and recreation areas. Hiking, backpacking, camping, skiing, house
boating, water-skiing and fishing are among the recreation opportunities
offered in these areas.
Connect with Tema for a Colorado River
Vacation
tema@arezza.net skype arezza1
