Heather Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Heather Lake |
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 Heather Lake
Location in Montana
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| Location | Gallatin County, Montana |
| Coordinates | 45°24′35″N 110°56′10″W / 45.4096°N 110.9362°W |
| Type | Lake |
| Primary inflows | Gallatin Range |
| Primary outflows | East Fork Hyalite Creek |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 14 acres (5.7 ha) |
| Surface elevation | 9,186 ft (2,800 m) |
Heather Lake is a beautiful mountain lake located in Gallatin County, Montana. It sits high up in the Gallatin Range, a stunning mountain chain in south-central Montana. This lake is a natural wonder, tucked away in the Gallatin National Forest.
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What is Heather Lake?
Heather Lake is a freshwater lake, meaning it's not salty like the ocean. It's a relatively small lake, covering about 14 acres (5.7 ha). That's roughly the size of 10 football fields! The lake gets its water from the surrounding mountains, specifically the Gallatin Range. Its water then flows out into a stream called the East Fork of Hyalite Creek.
Where is Heather Lake Located?
You can find Heather Lake in the southwestern part of Montana, within Gallatin County. It's nestled deep inside the Gallatin National Forest. This forest is a huge area of protected land, full of trees, wildlife, and many other lakes and streams. The lake is quite remote, meaning it's far from big cities and towns.
How High is Heather Lake?
Heather Lake is a very high-altitude lake. It sits at an elevation of 9,186 ft (2,800 m) above sea level. To give you an idea, that's almost two miles up in the sky! Because it's so high, the area around Heather Lake can be quite cold, even in summer. The air is thinner, and snow can stay on the ground for a long time.
Nature Around Heather Lake
The area around Heather Lake is part of a wild and natural environment. The Gallatin National Forest is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. You might find tall evergreen trees like pine and fir. Wildflowers often bloom in the meadows during the warmer months.
Many animals live in this mountain habitat. You could spot deer, elk, or even a moose. Smaller animals like marmots and pikas are also common. If you are lucky, you might even see a bear or a mountain goat. These animals are wild and should always be observed from a safe distance.
Exploring the Area
Heather Lake is a popular spot for people who love the outdoors. Hikers often visit the lake, enjoying the challenging trails and amazing views. The lake is part of a larger network of trails within the Gallatin National Forest.
Because of its high elevation, the best time to visit is usually in late summer. This is when most of the snow has melted, and the weather is milder. Visitors should always be prepared for changing weather conditions in the mountains.
Quick Facts About Heather Lake
- Location: Gallatin County, Montana
- Mountain Range: Gallatin Range
- Forest: Gallatin National Forest
- Elevation: 9,186 ft (2,800 m) (about 2 miles high!)
- Size: Approximately 14 acres (5.7 ha)
- Inflow: Water from the Gallatin Range
- Outflow: East Fork Hyalite Creek
