Lac Vieux Desert facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lac Vieux Desert |
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 Lac Vieux Desert
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Gogebic County, Michigan / Vilas County, Wisconsin, United States |
| Coordinates | 46°08′N 89°07′W / 46.13°N 89.12°W |
| Primary outflows | Wisconsin River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 4 miles (6.4 km) |
| Max. width | 2 miles (3.2 km) |
| Surface area | 4,260 acres (17.2 km2) |
| Max. depth | 40 ft (12 m) |
| Surface elevation | 1,683 ft (513 m) |
| Islands | Draper Island, Duck Island |
Lac Vieux Desert is a beautiful lake located in the United States. It sits right on the border between Gogebic County, Michigan, and Vilas County, Wisconsin. This lake is special because it's the starting point of the Wisconsin River. The river flows out from the lake's southwest corner.
The lake gets most of its water from springs in the nearby swampy areas. Lac Vieux Desert has several small islands, especially in its northeastern part. Some of these islands include Draper Island in Michigan and Duck Island in Wisconsin.
The surface of Lac Vieux Desert is about 1,680 feet (512 meters) above sea level. The deepest part of the lake is around 40 feet (12 meters). The lake covers a large area of about 4,260 acres (17.2 square kilometers). About two-thirds of the lake is in Wisconsin, and one-third is in Michigan.
This lake is found in the "Lake District" of northern Wisconsin. It's a very popular spot for boating and fishing.
The name "Lac Vieux Desert" was given by French fur trappers. They were some of the first Europeans to explore this region. The French name means "Lake of the Old Clearing" or "Old Garden." This was a translation of the name used by the Ojibwe people who lived there. The Ojibwe called it Gete-gitigaani-zaaga'igan.
The Ojibwe, also known as Chippewa, lived in a huge area around Lake Superior. This included parts of northern Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and even parts of Canada.
The Michigan side of Lac Vieux Desert is unique. It's the only part of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where water flows into the Mississippi River system. This makes it one of only two such areas in the entire state of Michigan.
Fun Activities at Lac Vieux Desert
Lac Vieux Desert is a great place for outdoor fun. You can find many resorts and campgrounds along the lake's shores. Most of the Wisconsin side of the lake has buildings, but thick forests still surround many of the properties.
Fishing Adventures
Lac Vieux Desert is famous for its fishing. In 1919, the biggest Tiger muskellunge ever caught in Wisconsin was reeled in here! This huge fish was 54 inches (137 cm) long and weighed 51 pounds, 3 ounces (23.2 kg). This record has stood longer than any other fishing record in the state.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
There are several interesting places to visit near Lac Vieux Desert:
- Lac Vieux Desert Indian Reservation: This is where the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians live. They also run a gaming casino.
- Paulding Light: A mysterious light that appears in the sky near Paulding, Michigan. Many people visit to try and see it.
- Bond Falls: A beautiful waterfall located on the Ontonagon River. It's a great spot for sightseeing and photography.
- Agate Falls Scenic Site: Another stunning waterfall, known for its unique rock formations.
