Alturas Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alturas Lake |
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![]() Paddling on Alturas Lake
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Location | Blaine County, Idaho |
Coordinates | 43°54′49″N 114°51′38″W / 43.913517°N 114.860569°W |
Type | Glacial |
Primary inflows | Alturas Lake Creek |
Primary outflows | Alturas Lake Creek to Salmon River |
Basin countries | United States |
Max. length | 1.95 mi (3.14 km) |
Max. width | 0.80 mi (1.29 km) |
Surface elevation | 7,016 ft (2,138 m) |
Alturas Lake is a beautiful alpine lake located in Blaine County, Idaho, United States. It's nestled in the amazing Sawtooth Valley, which is part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This area is known for its stunning mountains and clear waters.
The lake is about 21 miles (34 km) south of a town called Stanley. It's also about 30 miles (48 km) northwest of Ketchum. You can easily get to Alturas Lake from State Highway 75. Just look for Sawtooth National Forest road 205.
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Discover Alturas Lake
Alturas Lake is a very special place. It's an alpine lake, which means it's high up in the mountains. It was formed by glaciers long, long ago.
Size and Location
Alturas Lake is the second largest lake in the southern part of the Sawtooth Valley. It's a big lake, perfect for exploring! Its northern shore is easy to get to. This makes it a popular spot for visitors.
What Can You Do There?
Around Alturas Lake, you'll find several places to camp. There are also private camps for people who own property there. It's a great spot for outdoor activities like paddling, fishing, and enjoying nature.
Where Does the Water Come From?
Water flows into Alturas Lake from Alturas Lake Creek. This creek also carries water out of the lake, eventually joining the Salmon River. Two other lakes, Leah Lake and Logjam Lake, are upstream from Alturas Lake. This means their water flows into the system that feeds Alturas Lake.
How Did It Get Its Name?
The lake got its name from a place called Alturas County. This county used to exist in Idaho but is no longer around today.