Gutiérrez Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gutiérrez Lake |
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Location | Bariloche Department, Río Negro Province, Argentina, in Patagonia |
Coordinates | 41°11′12″S 71°24′37″W / 41.18667°S 71.41028°W |
Type | Moraine-dammed lake |
Primary outflows | Gutiérrez River |
Basin countries | Argentina |
Surface elevation | 2,510 ft (770 m) |
Islands | 0 (no islands) |
Settlements | San Carlos de Bariloche |
Gutiérrez Lake, known as Lago Gutiérrez in Spanish, is a beautiful lake in northern Patagonia, Argentina. It is located in the Río Negro Province. This lake was formed by ancient glaciers, making it a "glacial lake." It is also a "moraine-dammed lake," which means a natural wall of rocks and dirt left by a glacier holds its water. Gutiérrez Lake is connected to the larger Nahuel Huapi Lake.
The lake was named by a famous explorer and naturalist, Francisco Moreno. He chose the name to honor his teacher, Juan María Gutiérrez.
Contents
Animals and Plants of Gutiérrez Lake
Gutiérrez Lake is home to many interesting animals. Its clear waters are a great place for different types of fish.
Fish Species
The lake has several kinds of trout. These include rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. These fish are very popular with anglers (people who fish) from all over the world. They come to the lake specifically to catch these trout.
Unique Birds
You might be surprised to learn that Gutiérrez Lake is also home to some unusual birds. You can find the kelp gull and the blue-eyed cormorant (Phalacrocorax atriceps) here. These birds usually live near the ocean, even though the lake is far from any sea and high up in the mountains!
Exploring Gutiérrez Lake
Gutiérrez Lake is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It offers clear waters and beautiful scenery.
Water Activities and Temperature
The lake's water is very clear. However, it is also quite cold. The average surface temperature is about 7 °C (45 °F). Because of this, people who swim in the lake need to be careful about hypothermia, which is when your body gets too cold. Kayaking is a popular and safer sport on this lake and other nearby lakes.
Location and Tourism
Gutiérrez Lake is located very close to the city of San Carlos de Bariloche, about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) away. This makes it an easy and popular place for visitors. There are many nice spots around the lake where you can have a picnic or enjoy the sun.
Villa los Coihues
On the northern shore of Gutiérrez Lake, there is a small village called Villa los Coihues. The name "Coihue" comes from a type of tree called Nothofagus dombeyi, which is common in the area. It is a small but active community.
Dr. Rosendo Pascual Museum
In Villa los Coihues, you can find the "Dr. Rosendo Pascual" geological and paleontological museum. Even though it's a small museum, it has a large collection of interesting rocks and fossils.
See also
In Spanish: Lago Gutiérrez para niños