Independence River

Coordinates: 43°44′59″N 75°23′30″W / 43.74972°N 75.39167°W / 43.74972; -75.39167
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Independence River
Location
CountryUnited States
StateNew York
Physical characteristics
MouthBlack River
 • location
Bushes Landing, New York
 • coordinates
43°44′59″N 75°23′30″W / 43.74972°N 75.39167°W / 43.74972; -75.39167
 • elevation
730 ft (220 m)
Basin size95.1 sq mi (246 km2)

The Independence River is a small mountain stream which originates near the western edge of Adirondack Park. Situated north of the Moose River and south of the Beaver River, it begins in Herkimer County and flows west into Lewis County, toward its confluence with the Black River in Watson, north of Lyons Falls and just south of Lowville.

The Independence was named by surveyor/engineer Pierre Pharoux in 1794, in honor of the national holiday.[1]

Whitewater Paddling[edit]

The Independence is considered an excellent run by whitewater kayakers and canoeists, with a long Class-V rapid called the "Fat Lady" near its end. In contrast to the nearby Beaver and Moose, the Independence has no dams; thus, its suitability for paddling is entirely dependent on rain.[2]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ Haddock, John A. (2010). The Growth of a Century: As Illustrated in the History of Jefferson County, New York, from 1793 to 1894... Nabu Press. p. 114. ISBN 1174349964.
  2. ^ American Whitewater, Independence River Description