Crooked Lake (Minnesota–Ontario) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crooked Lake |
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 Crooked Lake
Location in Minnesota
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| Location | Minnesota, United States and Ontario, Canada |
| Coordinates | 48°11′44″N 91°47′41″W / 48.195521°N 91.794628°W |
| Type | Lake |
| Surface elevation | 1,243 feet (379 m) |
Crooked Lake is a beautiful lake that sits right on the border between two countries. Part of it is in the United States, in the state of Minnesota. The other part is in Canada, in the province of Ontario. It's a long, winding lake that connects different waterways.
This lake is part of the Basswood River system. It stretches from a place called Lower Basswood Falls all the way to Curtain Falls. Because it's so long and curvy, it got its name from the French word crocher, which means "hooked."
Where is Crooked Lake?
Crooked Lake is in a very special natural area. The part of the lake in the United States is located in St. Louis County, Minnesota. This area is part of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This wilderness is inside the Superior National Forest.
The Canadian side of Crooked Lake is also protected. It is part of Quetico Provincial Park. Both of these areas are famous for their amazing natural beauty. They are popular places for canoeing, camping, and enjoying the outdoors.
A Look into History
Long ago, people lived around Crooked Lake. The First Nations people were the first to call this area home. They left behind special rock carvings called pictographs. You can still see some of these ancient pictures near Lower Basswood Falls. These pictures tell stories about their lives and beliefs.
Later, French fur traders visited the lake. These traders were known as voyageurs. They traveled by canoe through the lakes and rivers, trading furs. They were the ones who gave Crooked Lake its name because of its winding shape.
Exploring the Wilderness
Crooked Lake is a key part of a huge wilderness area. This area is known for its many lakes, rivers, and forests. It is a great place to see wildlife like moose, bears, and many kinds of birds.
Many people visit Crooked Lake to go canoeing. The lake's long, winding shape makes it perfect for exploring by boat. Visitors can paddle through calm waters and enjoy the quiet of nature. It's a place where you can truly feel far away from busy cities.
