Cracker Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cracker Lake |
|
|---|---|
A tent at Cracker Lake campground
|
|
 Cracker Lake
Location in Montana
Cracker Lake
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Glacier National Park, Glacier County, Montana, United States |
| Coordinates | 48°44′40″N 113°38′35″W / 48.74444°N 113.64306°W |
| Lake type | Natural |
| Primary inflows | Canyon Creek |
| Primary outflows | Canyon Creek |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | .60 miles (0.97 km) |
| Max. width | .15 miles (0.24 km) |
| Surface elevation | 5,910 ft (1,800 m) |
Cracker Lake is a beautiful lake located in Glacier National Park in the state of Montana, United States. It sits at the end of a canyon, surrounded by tall mountains. The lake is famous for its amazing, bright turquoise water.
This special color comes from tiny rock particles, called rock flour, that flow into the lake. These particles are created when glaciers grind rocks into super fine dust. The dust then mixes with the water, giving it a unique, opaque blue-green look.
Contents
Exploring Cracker Lake
Cracker Lake is a popular spot for hikers and campers. It offers stunning views and a chance to see wildlife.
How to Get There
To reach Cracker Lake, you need to hike about 6.1 miles (9.8 km) from the Many Glacier Hotel. The trail is a bit challenging but very rewarding. Along the way, you'll see beautiful scenery and different types of plants and animals.
Mountains Around the Lake
Several impressive mountains stand near Cracker Lake. To the south, you'll find Mount Siyeh, which rises more than 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) above the lake's surface. Other notable peaks nearby include Cracker Peak to the southeast and Allen Mountain to the north. These mountains add to the dramatic landscape of the area.
History of Cracker Lake
The name "Cracker Lake" and nearby "Cracker Peak" come from a mining operation that once existed in the area.
The Cracker Mine
In the late 1800s, prospectors discovered gold near the lake. This led to the creation of the Cracker Mine. Miners worked hard to extract gold from the ground, even in this remote and rugged location. You can still find some old mining equipment near the lake, reminding visitors of its past.
Impact of Mining
The mining operations had an impact on the area. However, today, Cracker Lake is part of a protected national park. This means the environment is carefully preserved for everyone to enjoy. The park helps protect the lake's natural beauty and its unique turquoise color.
Gallery
-
Mining equipment at the lake
-
Mining equipment at the lake
