Carson River
Carson River is a vital waterway that originates in the Sierra Nevada and flows across Western Nevada into Great Basin. The river supports wildlife, recreational fishing, and irrigation from Historic Carson City to its terminus.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Great Basin |
| Country | United States |
| State | Nevada |
| County | Washoe County |
| District | Carson City |
| City | Carson City |
| Timezone | AmericaLos Angeles |
| Latitude | 39.155 |
| Longitude | -119.805 |
| Maps |
6:12 PM LOCAL TIMEStarting high in the Sierra Nevada, the Carson River descends through alpine valleys and broadening plains to reach the Lahontan Basin. Its headwaters are near Carson Pass and Lake Tahoe, sourcing streams that converge near Franklin-Armstrong Pass. The river passes through Steamboat Springs, supplies water to Carson City and Minden–Garnerville, and finally drains into the Pyramid Lake—bone-dry before the river's seasonal flood. Along its course, the Carson supports a palette of trout and native fish, irrigates agricultural lands, and offers spots for shoreline camping and paddling. Significant for both ecosystem vitality and regional water use, the Carson interacts closely with human settlements and endorheic lakes.
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