Kintla Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kintla Lake |
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![]() Fog rolls over the lake's surface, caused by the differing temperatures of the air and the water
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Location | Glacier National Park, Flathead County, Montana, US |
Coordinates | 48°57′53″N 114°18′10″W / 48.96472°N 114.30278°W |
Type | Natural |
Primary inflows | Kintla Creek |
Primary outflows | Kintla Creek |
Basin countries | United States |
Max. length | 5 mi (8.0 km) |
Max. width | 0.8 mi (1.3 km) |
Surface area | 1,698 acres (6.87 km2) |
Max. depth | 390 ft (120 m) |
Surface elevation | 4,008 ft (1,222 m) |
Kintla Lake is a beautiful lake located in the northwestern part of Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. It is found in a very quiet and remote area of the park. The lake is quite close to the border between the United States and Canada.
To reach Kintla Lake, you need to drive about 40 miles (64 km) from the park's west entrance. This drive is on bumpy dirt roads. Kintla Lake covers about 1,698 acres (6.87 km²). This makes it the fourth largest lake in Glacier National Park. It is only a little smaller than Bowman Lake.
What's in a Name?
The name Kintla comes from the Kutenai people. The Kutenai are a Native American tribe who have lived in this region for a very long time. According to a Kutenai legend, the name "Kintla" means "sack."
The legend says that a man once drowned in one of the lakes. This sad event made people compare the lake to a sack. The idea was that "once you got in, you couldn't get out." This story gives the lake its unique name.
Fun Activities at Kintla Lake
Kintla Lake is a great place for outdoor adventures. Many people enjoy spending time here because it is so peaceful and quiet.
Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are perfect activities on Kintla Lake. The park does not allow any motorized boats on the water. This rule helps keep the lake calm and quiet. It also protects the natural environment.
Camping
There is a peaceful campground right by the lake. This campground is rarely full because of the lake's remote location. If you are looking for a quiet camping experience away from crowds, Kintla Lake is an excellent choice.
Fishing
Fishing is also very popular at Kintla Lake. The lake is home to different kinds of trout. Anglers enjoy trying to catch these fish in the clear, cool waters.
Hiking
The area around Kintla Lake offers many options for hiking. You can go on short day hikes to explore the nearby trails. For those who love longer adventures, there are also extended hikes into the backcountry. These trails let you see more of the park's beautiful wilderness.