Blue Rock Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blue Rock Lake |
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Location | Boise County, Idaho |
Coordinates | 44°03′51″N 115°03′27″W / 44.064039°N 115.057525°W |
Type | Glacial |
Primary outflows | Goat Creek to South Fork Payette River |
Basin countries | United States |
Max. length | 0.13 mi (0.21 km) |
Max. width | 0.09 mi (0.14 km) |
Surface elevation | 8,243 ft (2,512 m) |
For the Australian 'Blue Rock Lake' see Blue Rock Dam
Blue Rock Lake is a beautiful, small alpine lake found high up in the mountains. It is located in Boise County, Idaho, in the United States. This special lake is nestled within the amazing Sawtooth Mountains. It is also part of the larger Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
This lake is a true hidden gem. There are no easy trails leading directly to Blue Rock Lake. This means it stays very wild and untouched. The lake's water flows out into a stream called Goat Creek. This creek then joins the South Fork Payette River.
Discovering Blue Rock Lake
Blue Rock Lake is a type of lake known as a glacial lake. This means it was formed a very long time ago by huge sheets of ice called glaciers. As glaciers moved, they carved out hollows in the land. When the ice melted, these hollows filled with water, creating lakes like Blue Rock Lake.
The lake sits at a very high elevation. It is about 8,243 feet (or 2,512 meters) above sea level. Imagine being that high up in the mountains! It is also quite small. It measures about 0.13 miles (0.21 kilometers) long and 0.09 miles (0.14 kilometers) wide.
Exploring the Sawtooth Wilderness
Blue Rock Lake is located inside the Sawtooth Wilderness. A wilderness area is a special place where nature is protected. People are encouraged to visit, but they must do so in a way that leaves no trace. This helps keep the environment healthy for plants and animals.
To visit the Sawtooth Wilderness, you often need a special permit. You can usually get one from a registration box at the start of hiking trails or at the wilderness boundaries. This helps park rangers keep track of visitors and protect the area.
Nearby Natural Wonders
Blue Rock Lake is surrounded by other beautiful natural features. Upstream from Blue Rock Lake, you can find several other lakes. These include the Feather Lakes, Warbonnet Lake, and Little Warbonnet Lake. These lakes are all part of the same amazing mountain landscape.
The Sawtooth Mountains are famous for their rugged peaks and clear waters. They offer incredible views and a chance to experience nature in its purest form. Blue Rock Lake is a perfect example of the wild beauty found in this region.