West Virginia is a state located in the Appalachian region of the United States and is bordered by Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest, Ohio to the northwest, and Pennsylvania and Maryland to the northeast. The state is known for its natural beauty, including its extensive network of rivers and streams. The West Virginia Rivers Map shows all the major rivers and streams that flow through the state, including the Ohio River, the Kanawha River, and the New River.
West Virginia Rivers Map
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The Ohio River is one of the most important rivers in West Virginia. It is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River and forms the border between West Virginia and Ohio. The Ohio River is approximately 981 miles long and provides important transportation, recreation, and commercial navigation opportunities for the people of West Virginia.
The Kanawha River is another major river in West Virginia. It runs approximately 140 miles through the state and is a vital source of drinking water, irrigation, and industrial water supplies. The Kanawha River is also a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing and boating.
The New River is a unique river in West Virginia as it flows from north to south, unlike most rivers in the state which flow from west to east. The New River is approximately 320 miles long and is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including white-water rafting and kayaking.
In addition to these major rivers, West Virginia is also home to many smaller rivers and streams, including the Little Kanawha River, the Big Sandy River, the Monongahela River, the Greenbrier River, and the Elk River. These smaller rivers and streams provide important habitat for fish and wildlife and are also used for recreation and tourism in the state.
Another river of significance in West Virginia is the Guyandotte River. It is approximately 95 miles long and flows through the central part of the state, eventually joining the Ohio River. The Guyandotte River has been a major source of coal, oil, and natural gas for the region and is also used for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping.
The Monongahela River, which runs through the northern part of the state, is another important river in West Virginia. It is approximately 324 miles long and is a major source of drinking water and industrial water supplies. The Monongahela River also provides important transportation and commercial navigation opportunities, with several locks and dams along its length.
The Elk River is a short river, only around 112 miles long, but it is an important tributary of the Kanawha River. It is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, including fishing and boating. The Elk River is also a source of drinking water for many communities in West Virginia.
The Greenbrier River is approximately 150 miles long and flows through the central part of the state. It is a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, camping, and canoeing and is also a source of drinking water for many communities. The Greenbrier River has played a significant role in the history of West Virginia, serving as an important transportation route during the state’s early history.
The Little Kanawha River is approximately 96 miles long and flows through the central part of the state. Like the Kanawha River, the Little Kanawha River is a source of drinking water and is used for recreational activities such as fishing and boating. The Little Kanawha River is also a source of natural gas, oil, and coal for the region.
The Big Sandy River is approximately 350 miles long and forms part of the boundary between West Virginia and Kentucky. The Big Sandy River is used for recreational activities such as fishing and boating, and is also a source of drinking water for many communities in West Virginia.
In conclusion, West Virginia is home to a diverse and valuable network of rivers and streams. From the Ohio River to the Little Kanawha River, these waterways provide vital resources for the state, including drinking water, transportation, and commercial opportunities, as well as recreational opportunities for the people of West Virginia. The West Virginia Rivers Map provides a comprehensive overview of these waterways and is an important tool for understanding the many benefits they provide to the state.