Baker Lake (Blaine County, Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Baker Lake |
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 Baker Lake
Location in Idaho
Baker Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Blaine County, Idaho |
| Coordinates | 43°41′26″N 114°40′32″W / 43.6906772°N 114.6755747°W |
| Lake type | Glacial |
| Primary outflows | Baker Creek to Big Wood River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 920 ft (280 m) |
| Max. width | 490 ft (150 m) |
| Surface area | 8.6 acres (3.5 ha) |
| Surface elevation | 8,799 ft (2,682 m) |
Baker Lake is a beautiful alpine lake located in Blaine County, Idaho, in the United States. It sits high up in the Smoky Mountains, which are part of the large Sawtooth National Forest. This lake is a great example of a "glacial lake," meaning it was formed by ancient glaciers.
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Discovering Baker Lake
Baker Lake is a special place found in the mountains of Idaho. It's known as an alpine lake because it's located at a very high elevation, about 8,799 feet (2,682 meters) above sea level. The lake is not very big, measuring about 920 feet (280 meters) long and 490 feet (149 meters) wide. Its surface area covers about 8.6 acres.
How to Visit Baker Lake
Getting to Baker Lake is an adventure! The easiest way to reach it is by following a trail. This trail starts at the end of Forest Road 162. Hikers can enjoy the journey through the forest to reach this peaceful mountain lake.
Where is Baker Lake Located?
Baker Lake is nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. These mountains are a range within the larger Sawtooth National Forest. The lake is found just east of a mountain called Backdrop Peak and north of another peak named Baker Peak.
What is a Glacial Lake?
Baker Lake is a type of lake called a "glacial lake." This means it was created by the movement of huge sheets of ice, known as glaciers, many thousands of years ago.
How Glaciers Form Lakes
Imagine giant rivers of ice slowly moving across the land. As these glaciers moved, they scraped and carved out the earth, creating deep hollows or basins. When the climate warmed and the glaciers melted, these basins filled with water, forming lakes. Baker Lake is one such lake, filled with the meltwater from ancient glaciers.
The Sawtooth National Forest
Baker Lake is part of the vast Sawtooth National Forest. This forest covers a huge area in central Idaho and is known for its rugged mountains, clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing.
