Green Lake (Cariboo) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Green Lake |
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 Green Lake
Location in British Columbia
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| Location | South Cariboo, British Columbia |
| Coordinates | 51°25′00″N 121°13′00″W / 51.41667°N 121.21667°W |
| Basin countries | Canada |
Green Lake is a beautiful lake found in the South Cariboo area of British Columbia, Canada. It is located to the east of a small community called 70 Mile House. This lake is a very popular spot for people who enjoy outdoor activities and for those who own vacation homes. Many visitors come from the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia. Parts of the land around Green Lake are protected as part of Green Lake Provincial Park.
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Discovering Green Lake's Location
Green Lake is nestled in the heart of British Columbia's Cariboo region. This area is known for its vast forests and many lakes. The lake's exact location is about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) east of 70 Mile House. It sits at an elevation of around 1,100 meters (3,600 feet) above sea level. This high elevation helps create a unique climate for the lake and its surroundings.
How Big is Green Lake?
Green Lake is quite large, stretching over 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) in length. Its width can vary, but it's generally about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) wide. The lake covers an area of approximately 1,400 hectares (3,460 acres). While it's a big lake, it's also quite shallow in many places. This makes it warmer for swimming during the summer months.
What Makes Green Lake Green?
The lake gets its name from its amazing color. The water often appears a bright, clear green. This special color comes from tiny particles of marl, which is a type of clay and calcium carbonate. These particles are suspended in the water and reflect sunlight in a way that makes the lake look green. This natural feature makes Green Lake very unique and picturesque.
Exploring Green Lake Provincial Park
A significant part of the land around Green Lake is protected within Green Lake Provincial Park. This park was created to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. It also provides places for people to enjoy nature responsibly. The park offers many opportunities for outdoor fun.
Activities in the Park
Green Lake Provincial Park is a great place for many activities. During the warmer months, visitors can enjoy:
- Swimming: The shallow, warm waters are perfect for a dip.
- Boating: Canoeing, kayaking, and motorboating are popular.
- Fishing: The lake is home to several types of fish.
- Camping: There are designated campsites for overnight stays.
- Hiking: Trails offer chances to explore the surrounding forests.
In winter, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland. People can enjoy cross-country skiing and ice skating on the frozen lake.
Protecting Nature in the Park
The park plays an important role in protecting the local environment. It helps to keep the lake's waters clean and healthy. It also provides a safe home for many animals and plants. Park rangers and staff work to educate visitors about how to enjoy the park without harming nature. This includes following rules about litter and wildlife.
Wildlife and Nature Around Green Lake
Green Lake and its surrounding areas are rich in diverse wildlife. The mix of water, forests, and open spaces creates many habitats. This makes it a great place for animals to live and thrive.
Animals You Might See
The forests around Green Lake are home to various mammals. You might spot moose grazing near the shore or deer moving through the trees. Smaller animals like beavers, otters, and different types of squirrels are also common. Birdwatchers will enjoy the many species of birds. These include ducks, loons, and geese on the water. You might also see osprey and bald eagles soaring overhead.
Plants and Trees of the Region
The plant life around Green Lake is typical of British Columbia's interior. The forests are mainly made up of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir trees. Near the lake, you'll find different types of willow and aspen trees. In the spring and summer, wildflowers add splashes of color to the landscape. These plants provide food and shelter for the local wildlife.
History and Human Connection to Green Lake
The area around Green Lake has a long history of human activity. Indigenous peoples have lived here for thousands of years. Later, European settlers arrived, drawn by the land's resources.
Early Inhabitants
Long before modern settlements, the Secwepemc (Shuswap) First Nations people lived in this region. They used the lake and surrounding lands for hunting, fishing, and gathering food. Their knowledge of the land helped them live in harmony with nature. Evidence of their presence can still be found in some areas.
Settlement and Development
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, European settlers began to arrive. They established ranches and small communities. The Cariboo Wagon Road, a historic route, passed relatively close to Green Lake. This road helped connect the area to larger towns. Over time, Green Lake became known as a peaceful place for recreation. Today, it continues to be a popular destination for both residents and tourists.
