Little River Canyon National Preserve A River’s Path Little River Canyon National Preserve

A river will take the path of least resistance as gravity pulls it along its downward slope.

The slope of the landscape is one factor that will determine the speed and turbulence of the flow of water. An area with only a very slight slope will flow with less speed. A curve along the river can also slow the flow of water. The water appears calm as it slowly moves along.

As the slope of the landscape increases, or becomes more of a drop off, the faster the flow of water. This increased speed allows the water to move sediment, rocks, and other debris.

The more turbulent the water, the more it can carry with it to be deposited down the river.

More Rain = More Water = Greater Flow The amount of precipitation can create huge changes in the flow of the river. More Rain = More Water = Greater Flow

Water Weathering: is the process of breaking rock into silt, sand, clay, and other tiny pieces. Water is an important cause of weathering. Water tumbles rocks against each other, breaking them into smaller pieces and smoothing their edges. Erosion: is the process of moving sediment from one place to another. Deposition: is the process of dropping sediment in a new location.

As the river meanders across the landscape it has created beautiful scenery throughout Little River Canyon!