LAKE ST. CLAIR / DETROIT RIVER
The 32-mile Detroit River and Lake St. Clair connect the three Upper Great Lakes – Lake Superior, Lake Huron and Lake Michigan – to Lake Erie. A majority of the water that is in the Upper Great Lakes flows through the Detroit River. The waterway then continues to the Atlantic Ocean and the rest of the world.
People have lived on the banks of the Detroit River for thousands of years. The river has provided important resources such as food to eat and water to drink. Detroit was founded on the banks of the river on July 24, 1701.
The Detroit River also provided a way to freedom for many African Americans escaping slavery.
People have lived on the banks of the Detroit River for thousands of years. The river has provided important resources such as food to eat and water to drink. Detroit was founded on the banks of the river on July 24, 1701.
The Detroit River also provided a way to freedom for many African Americans escaping slavery.
A Heritage River
The Detroit River was designated an
American Heritage River in 1998 and a Canadian Heritage River in 2001.
It is the only river to have both designations.
These designations highlight the important natural, cultural and recreational heritage of the river. They remind us to protect it, while enjoying all it has to offer.
Detroit River
32 miles long
– 4 miles across at widest point
– The current moves 1-3 feet per second
