Hourglass Lake (Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hourglass Lake |
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 Hourglass Lake
Location in Idaho
Hourglass Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Custer County, Idaho |
| Coordinates | 44°04′41″N 114°35′18″W / 44.077962°N 114.588440°W |
| Type | Glacial |
| Primary outflows | Little Boulder Creek to East Fork Salmon River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 735 ft (224 m) |
| Max. width | 387 ft (118 m) |
| Surface area | 3.4 acres (1.4 ha) |
| Surface elevation | 9,514 ft (2,900 m) |
Hourglass Lake is a beautiful alpine lake found in Custer County, Idaho, United States. It is located high up in the amazing White Cloud Mountains. This special lake is part of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, a place known for its stunning natural beauty.
You can reach Hourglass Lake by following Sawtooth National Forest trail 683. It's a great spot for adventurers!
Contents
Discover Hourglass Lake
Hourglass Lake is a type of lake called an alpine lake. This means it is located very high up in the mountains. It sits at an elevation of about 9,514 feet (2,900 meters) above sea level. Imagine how cool and fresh the air must be up there!
Where is Hourglass Lake?
This lake is nestled in a wild and scenic part of Idaho. It is found northwest of a mountain called Merriam Peak. Hourglass Lake is also part of a group of lakes known as the Boulder Chain Lakes Basin. This area is famous for its many clear, cold mountain lakes.
How Big is Hourglass Lake?
Hourglass Lake might not be the biggest lake you've ever heard of, but it's still quite impressive. It stretches about 735 feet (224 meters) long. At its widest point, it measures around 387 feet (118 meters) across. The lake covers an area of about 3.4 acres. That's roughly the size of three football fields!
What is a Glacial Lake?
Hourglass Lake is a glacial lake. This means it was formed a very long time ago by giant sheets of ice called glaciers. As these glaciers slowly moved, they carved out valleys and hollows in the mountains. When the glaciers melted, these hollows filled with water, creating lakes like Hourglass Lake. This process left behind the unique shape of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
Exploring the Area
The area around Hourglass Lake is part of the Sawtooth National Forest. This forest is home to many different plants and animals. It's a popular place for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature. When you visit, remember to always follow the rules to protect this beautiful environment.
