Dollar Lakes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dollar Lakes |
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Location | Ruby Mountains, Elko County, Nevada |
Coordinates | 40°35′30″N 115°23′06″W / 40.59167°N 115.38500°W |
Type | tarn |
Primary outflows | Lamoille Creek |
Basin countries | United States |
Surface area | 3 acres (1.2 ha) |
Max. depth | 15 ft (4.6 m) |
Surface elevation | 9,626 ft (2,934 m) |
The Dollar Lakes are a group of three small lakes located high up in the Ruby Mountains of Nevada, United States. These lakes are found in Elko County. They are a beautiful part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.
Contents
What are Dollar Lakes?
The Dollar Lakes are known as tarns. This means they are lakes formed by glaciers. Glaciers are huge sheets of ice that moved across the land long ago. As they moved, they carved out hollows in the mountains. When the glaciers melted, these hollows filled with water, creating lakes like the Dollar Lakes.
Where are they located?
The lakes are nestled near the top of Lamoille Canyon. This area is part of the scenic Ruby Mountains. They sit at a high elevation of about 9,626 feet (2,934 meters) above sea level. You can find their exact location using these coordinates: 40°35′30″N 115°23′06″W.
How big are they?
Together, the three Dollar Lakes cover an area of about 3 acres (1.2 hectares). The deepest parts of the lakes can reach up to 15 feet (4.6 meters).
What's special about them?
A famous hiking path, the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail, runs right along the western side of the Dollar Lakes. This trail offers amazing views and makes the lakes a popular spot for hikers. It's a great place to explore nature and see the stunning mountain scenery.
Water Flow
The Dollar Lakes are important because they are a main source of water for Lamoille Creek. Another nearby lake, Lamoille Lake, also feeds into this creek.
Lamoille Creek and Humboldt River
After leaving the mountains, Lamoille Creek flows through the town of Lamoille. It then winds its way down the Lamoille Valley. Finally, Lamoille Creek joins the main branch of the Humboldt River. The Humboldt River is one of the longest rivers in Nevada.