Baranof Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Baranof Lake |
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A view southeast of the east half of Baranof Lake and part of Warm Springs Bay
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 Baranof Lake
Location in Alaska
Baranof Lake
Location in North America
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| Location | Baranof Island, Sitka City and Borough, Alaska, US |
| Coordinates | 57°05′15″N 134°51′57″W / 57.08750°N 134.86583°W |
| Lake type | Glacial lake |
| Primary inflows | Baranof River |
| Primary outflows | Baranof River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 3 mi (4.8 km) |
| Max. width | 1,000–3,800 ft (300–1,160 m) |
| Max. depth | 303 ft (92 m) |
| Surface elevation | 145 ft (44 m) |
| Settlements | Baranof Warm Springs |
Baranof Lake is a beautiful, horseshoe-shaped lake found on the eastern side of Baranof Island in Alaska. This lake was formed by glaciers long ago. It sits right next to the small community of Baranof Warm Springs. There is also a special cabin from the Forest Service located on the northwestern part of the lake.
The Baranof River flows into the western end of Baranof Lake. It then leaves the lake from the eastern end, creating exciting rapids and a waterfall. It is believed that Baranof Lake got its name from the nearby community of Baranof Warm Springs.
Contents
Discover Baranof Lake
Baranof Lake is a great example of a glacial lake. This means it was carved out and filled with water by huge sheets of ice called glaciers thousands of years ago. The lake is shaped like a horseshoe, which is quite unique!
Where is Baranof Lake?
Baranof Lake is located in a wild and beautiful part of Alaska. It's on Baranof Island, which is part of the Sitka City and Borough. This area is known for its stunning natural scenery and rugged landscapes.
How Big is Baranof Lake?
Baranof Lake is about 3 miles long. Its width can change quite a bit, from about 1,000 feet to 3,800 feet. The deepest part of the lake goes down about 303 feet! That's almost as deep as a 30-story building is tall. The lake sits at an elevation of 145 feet above sea level.
The Baranof River's Journey
The Baranof River plays a big role in Baranof Lake's life. It flows into the lake on one side and then flows out on the other. As the river leaves the lake, it creates fast-moving water called rapids and then plunges over a waterfall. This makes for a very scenic spot!
Exploring the Area
The lake is right next to the small community of Baranof Warm Springs. This town is famous for its natural hot springs, which are warm pools of water heated by the Earth. People often visit to relax in these springs. On the northwestern side of the lake, there's a Forest Service cabin. These cabins are often used by hikers and adventurers exploring the wilderness.
