Hidden Lakes (Nevada) facts for kids
The Hidden Lakes are two special lakes found high up in the Ruby Mountains in Elko County, Nevada. These lakes are called "glacial tarns." This means they were formed a long, long time ago by giant sheets of ice, called glaciers, that carved out bowls in the mountains. When the glaciers melted, these bowls filled with water, creating the lakes we see today.
The Hidden Lakes are located on a high shelf above an area called Soldier Basin. They are about 9,500 feet (2,896 meters) above sea level. Together, these two lakes cover about 9 acres (3.6 hectares) of land. At their deepest point, they can be up to 32 feet (9.8 meters) deep!
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Where are the Hidden Lakes?
The Hidden Lakes are in the northeastern part of Nevada, within the beautiful Ruby Mountains. This mountain range is known for its tall peaks and clear lakes. The lakes sit on a high, flat area, almost like a natural balcony, overlooking Soldier Basin.
How do the Hidden Lakes help?
The Hidden Lakes are very important because they are one of the main places where Soldier Creek begins. Soldier Creek is a stream that flows out of the eastern side of the Ruby Mountains.
The Journey of Soldier Creek
Soldier Creek travels through a place called Soldier Canyon. After leaving the mountains, it flows into the Lamoille Valley. Eventually, Soldier Creek joins up with a much larger river called the Humboldt River. This river is one of the longest in Nevada. So, the water from the Hidden Lakes helps feed a big river system in the state!
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