The Fascinating Anomalies of the Continental Divide

🌊The continental divide separates waters flowing into the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

🏞️Two Ocean Creek in Wyoming splits at a mountain pass, with one branch flowing towards the Atlantic and the other towards the Pacific.

🗺️Isa Lake in Yellowstone National Park is a natural lake that drains into both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

🏔️The continental divide follows a succession of mountain ranges, including the Rockies and the Andes.

🌍This phenomenon is not limited to North America, as there are similar divides on every continent.

What is the continental divide?

—The continental divide is a geographical boundary that separates waters flowing into different oceans.

Where can I find anomalies in the continental divide?

—Two Ocean Creek in Wyoming and Isa Lake in Yellowstone National Park are examples of anomalies where water splits and flows into different ocean basins.

Are there continental divides on other continents?

—Yes, every continent has its own continental divide.

Do rivers always flow in one direction?

—Rivers generally flow downhill, following the path of least resistance. However, anomalies like Two Ocean Creek split the flow of water in different directions.

What is the significance of the continental divide?

—The continental divide affects the direction and destination of river systems, impacting the flow of water across large landmasses.

00:00Lewis and Clark's expedition in search of the northwest passage demonstrated the lack of water routes crossing the continental divide.

02:30Two Ocean Creek splits at Two Ocean Pass in Wyoming, with one branch flowing towards the Atlantic and the other towards the Pacific.

05:06Isa Lake in Yellowstone National Park is a natural lake that drains into both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

06:31The continental divide spans multiple mountain ranges, including the Rockies and the Andes.

08:04Every continent has its own continental divide, with similar anomalies and divides found worldwide.