Lake Helen (Wyoming) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Helen |
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 Lake Helen
Location in Wyoming
Lake Helen
Location in the United States
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| Location | Big Horn Mountains, Big Horn County, Wyoming, US |
| Coordinates | 44°19′22″N 107°13′13″W / 44.322866°N 107.220168°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface elevation | 9,968 ft (3,038 m) |
Lake Helen is a beautiful, clear lake nestled high up in the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming, in the United States. It's a special place because it's located inside the Cloud Peak Wilderness Area, which means it's protected and kept wild. Getting to Lake Helen is an adventure in itself, as you can only reach it by hiking or riding a horse through the wilderness.
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Lake Helen: A High Mountain Gem
Lake Helen is one of many stunning lakes found in the Big Horn Mountains. These mountains are a large range in north-central Wyoming. The lake sits at a very high elevation, about 9,968 feet (or 3,038 meters) above sea level. This means it's almost two miles up in the sky! Being so high up, the air is crisp and clean, and the views are amazing.
Where is Lake Helen Located?
Lake Helen is found in Big Horn County, Wyoming. It's part of the larger Cloud Peak Wilderness Area. This wilderness area covers a huge part of the Big Horn Mountains. It's named after Cloud Peak, which is the highest point in the range. The wilderness area is managed to keep its natural beauty and wildness.
Getting to Lake Helen: A Wilderness Adventure
Because Lake Helen is in a wilderness area, there are no roads leading directly to it. This makes visiting the lake a true adventure. You can only get there by hiking or by riding a horse. This means you'll need to carry all your supplies with you. It's a great way to experience nature without the noise of cars or crowds.
What is a Wilderness Area?
A wilderness area is a special place set aside by the government. The goal is to protect the land in its natural state. This means:
- No cars or motorized vehicles are allowed.
- No permanent structures like buildings.
- Visitors must follow "Leave No Trace" principles. This means packing out everything you pack in and leaving the area exactly as you found it.
- It's a place for people to enjoy nature in a quiet, undisturbed way.
What Makes Lake Helen Special?
Lake Helen, like many mountain lakes, is known for its clear, cold water. The water often comes from melting snow and ice. The surrounding area is filled with tall pine trees and rugged mountain peaks. It's a peaceful spot perfect for enjoying nature. Many people visit these lakes for activities like:
- Hiking: Exploring the trails around the lake and in the wilderness area.
- Camping: Spending the night under the stars, often in designated backcountry campsites.
- Fishing: Some mountain lakes are home to different types of trout, making them popular for fishing.
- Wildlife Watching: You might spot animals like deer, elk, or various birds.
Visiting Lake Helen offers a chance to disconnect from busy life and enjoy the quiet beauty of the mountains.
