Hoodoo Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hoodoo Lake |
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Location | Custer County, Idaho |
Coordinates | 44°10′0.8746″N 114°38′31.2050″W / 44.166909611°N 114.642001389°W |
Lake type | Glacial |
Primary outflows | Slate Creek to Salmon River |
Basin countries | United States |
Max. length | 215 m (705 ft) |
Max. width | 150 m (490 ft) |
Surface elevation | 2,645 m (8,678 ft) |
Hoodoo Lake is a beautiful, clear lake found high up in the mountains of Custer County, Idaho, in the United States. It's known as an alpine lake because it's located at a very high elevation, about 2,645 meters (or 8,678 feet) above sea level! This special lake is nestled within the White Cloud Mountains, which are part of the amazing Sawtooth National Recreation Area. Getting to Hoodoo Lake can be a bit of an adventure because there aren't any official trails leading directly to it. However, you can reach it from Sawtooth National Forest road 666.
What is Hoodoo Lake?
Hoodoo Lake is a type of lake called a glacial lake. This means it was formed a very long time ago by huge sheets of ice called glaciers. As these glaciers moved slowly across the land, they carved out deep hollows in the ground. When the glaciers melted, these hollows filled up with water, creating lakes like Hoodoo Lake. It's about 215 meters (705 feet) long and 150 meters (492 feet) wide.
Where is Hoodoo Lake Located?
Hoodoo Lake is in Custer County, Idaho, a part of the central Idaho state. It sits within the stunning White Cloud Mountains. These mountains are famous for their tall peaks and beautiful scenery. The lake is also part of the larger Sawtooth National Recreation Area. This area is a protected natural space, known for its wild rivers, clear lakes, and forests. It's a great place for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
Nearby Features
Hoodoo Lake is located upstream and to the southwest of the Slate Creek Hot Springs. Hot springs are places where naturally heated water comes up from the Earth's crust. The water from Hoodoo Lake eventually flows into Slate Creek, which then joins the larger Salmon River. The Salmon River is one of the longest rivers entirely within one U.S. state.