Gunsight Lake (Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gunsight Lake |
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Gunsight Lake at lower part of photo with Tin Cup Lake and Calkins Peak
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 Gunsight Lake
Location in Idaho
Gunsight Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Custer County, Idaho |
| Coordinates | 44°07′38″N 114°36′28″W / 44.12723°N 114.607704°W |
| Lake type | Glacial |
| Primary outflows | Gunsight Creek to Big Boulder Creek to East Fork Salmon River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 300 m (980 ft) |
| Max. width | 145 m (476 ft) |
| Surface elevation | 3,070 m (10,070 ft) |
Gunsight Lake is a stunning mountain lake located high up in the White Cloud Mountains of Idaho. It's found in Custer County, within a special protected area known as the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This lake is an example of an alpine lake, which means it's found at a very high elevation, often surrounded by rugged peaks.
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Discovering Gunsight Lake
Gunsight Lake is a type of glacial lake. This means it was formed a very long time ago by the movement of huge sheets of ice called glaciers. As glaciers moved, they carved out valleys and depressions in the land. When the ice melted, these depressions filled with water, creating lakes like Gunsight Lake.
Where is Gunsight Lake?
Gunsight Lake is nestled in the beautiful White Cloud Mountains. These mountains are part of the larger Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This area is a protected space in central Idaho, known for its amazing natural beauty and outdoor activities. The lake sits at a very high elevation of about 3,070 m (10,070 ft) above sea level.
How Big is the Lake?
Gunsight Lake is not a huge lake, but it's a good size for a mountain lake. It stretches about 300 m (980 ft) long and is about 145 m (476 ft) wide. The water from Gunsight Lake flows into Gunsight Creek. This creek then joins Big Boulder Creek, which eventually flows into the East Fork Salmon River.
Getting There
Reaching Gunsight Lake is an adventure! There are no direct trails that lead right to the lake's edge. However, brave hikers can access the area by following Sawtooth National Forest trail 680. Because it's a bit harder to reach, the lake often feels very wild and peaceful.
Nearby Lakes and Features
Gunsight Lake is surrounded by other interesting natural features. It's located just southeast of a unique rock formation called the Chinese Wall. This "wall" is a long, tall ridge that looks like a natural barrier. Gunsight Lake also shares its basin with several other beautiful lakes, including:
These lakes are all part of the same stunning mountain landscape, offering incredible views and a chance to experience nature.
