The Potomac River in North America (photo)

Calling the Potomac River an important water artery of the United States, do not exaggerate. After all, over its northern coast rises Washington, the main city of a huge state, its majestic capital. Washington occupied both banks of the waterway in its lower reaches. Small ships are approaching the city by the river water.

The river itself, including the South Potomac and the estuary stretched along the eastern expanses of North America for 780 kilometers. The picturesque Potomac River in Washington has a swimming pool of 38,1 thousand square kilometers. In the rating of the Atlantic rivers by the size of the basin, she got the fourth place. And according to the statistical data of all the rivers of the United States, it was given only 21st place.

Geography of the Potomac

The state of Maryland, near the town of Cumberland, merge into a single water flow North and South Potomacs. As a result of this merger, the Potomac River was formed, the main artery of Washington. The source of the northern arm is in West Virginia, next to the Fairfax Stone. The flow of this sleeve is directed to the northeast. The southern sleeve begins next to the village of Haytown, in Virginia. It also flows in a northeasterly direction.

After the confluence of the sleeves, the Potomac River, the photo of which is magnificent, is heading to the southeast. It flows in this direction until it falls into the Chesapeake Bay, which is part of the Atlantic. The Potomac plays the role of the boundary between Maryland and Virginia. This waterway is navigable. Vessels cruise along it between the Great Falls and the mouth.

Historical facts

The Potomac - the so-called Indian tribe, who chose the southern coast of the river for refuge. There is an opinion that the word potomac is translated as "trading place" or "gathering place of tribute". The Indians used to have their own name for the river, they called it Cohongarooton. In translation it sounds like a "goose river".

In 1570, the river Potomac was discovered by the Spaniards. The description of the watershed was first made in 1608 by Captain John Smith. He put it on the map. Then traders who lived in Virginia were pulled here. With the base of Maryland, the Potomac turns into a key transport artery of the colony.

When the Civil War erupted, the water flow became the boundary for the Confederation of the Southern States. General Robert Lee managed to cross the water artery twice, invading the northern lands.

The Potomac River (North America) was formed about two million years ago as a result of the lowering of the level of the Atlantic Ocean and the emerged coastal sediments. The water artery was formed in the Great Falls region, the initial relief of which was destroyed by glaciers.

A lot of cultures were connected in the Potomac region. It closely intertwined the traditions of miners, boatmen and urban residents from West and North Virginia.

Great waterfalls

Several millennia ago, the Great Waterfalls formed on the river. The last two centuries, they are considered the main natural landmark in Washington. Great waterfalls from ancient times called the vast territory bordering the capital of the United States of America.

If we consider the administrative affiliation of the waterfalls, they are the property of two neighboring states - Maryland and Virginia. They are located 22 kilometers from Washington. Get to them by taxi or subway.

The amazing miracle of nature is amazing with the beauty and power of the grand streams of crystal clear water. Even in the photo Great waterfalls strike with their greatness. The beautiful river Potomac (or rather, its coast) is dotted with magnificent parks.

This picturesque place is popular with Americans and travelers. Adherents of outdoor activities are flocking here. Here, without surprise, you can meet fans of kayaking, rafting and rock climbing. They are dressed in comfortable and comfortable jeans, T-shirts and shoes.

Potomac is the heart of Washington

Calling Washington a majestic city, it is remembered that it was erected on the Potomac River. This watershed is not just a water artery, it is the heart of Washington. The history of the metropolis is inextricably linked with the name of the waterway.

The Potomac River became the site where in 1751 the port of Georgetown was built, which became a dynamic point of commerce and commerce. The zone of trade developed, supplies and transportation increased in volume. In 1790 Georgetown reached its heyday, becoming the largest port of the state. Exported and sold lots of tobacco here, for example, significantly exceeded the turnover of this product in other ports.

Ecological disaster

However, the Potomac had to endure difficult periods. In 1894 the waters of the river were so polluted that the authorities imposed a ban on swimming people. Bathing in a dirty river could undermine the health of lovers of water procedures.

The stigma of environmental distress has long haunted the watershed. After the serious cleaning of the waterway in 1970, the Potomac River began to gain a positive reputation. North America, its environmentalists and volunteers won the battle for the purity of the waters of an important artery.

The watershed came to life, as if born again. The purified waters breathed freely, letting in the life streams. Now the greatness of the saved river is undeniable. The canoe, kayaks and rowing boats glide along the water. Blue herons and eagles returned here. And looking at this harmony, you begin to feel the soul of the river, called the heart of Washington.

Potomac: dynamic and peaceful

Over the coast of the Potomac towering architectural monuments. They found the place of the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorial , the Kennedy Center and other sights. The native Washingtonians like the other appearance of the watershed. That it is a piece where the glitter of glass and the sparkling of concrete ends and the kingdom of river banks is opened, populated by light-winged birds and fish, shining with glossy scales. Here the dynamics of the metropolis is coming to naught. Life seems to slow down running, obeying the smooth flow of river waters.

Quay of the Potomac

In the place where the Potomac River flows through the North American capital - the city of Washington, a picturesque embankment is erected, wonderful promenades are arranged. On the edges of the embankment there are many excellent restaurants and recreation areas.

Along the coastline winding bike paths, colorful entrances to parks with excellent infrastructure are built. The territory of the parks is equipped with areas with barbecue and recreation areas. On the water surface slip river trams, tourist boats and yachts.

From here go on cruises along the river. From the water, stunning views of the city. Trees, houses and high-rise buildings are folded into a fantastic picture. Here they jog and sit in cafes, just admiring the river scenery.

Through the water mirror of the river bridges are thrown. The bridge leading to the suburb of Arlington, is decorated with gilded statues, made in Roman style. In the sky you can sometimes see a presidential helicopter.