Lake of the Woods (California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake of the Woods |
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Location | Desolation Wilderness, El Dorado County, California, US |
Coordinates | 38°51′00″N 120°07′10″W / 38.8500°N 120.1194°W |
Lake type | Glacial lake |
Primary outflows | Terminal (evaporation) |
Basin countries | United States |
Max. length | .9 km (0.56 mi) |
Max. width | .6 km (0.37 mi) |
Surface elevation | 2,453 m (8,048 ft) |
The Lake of the Woods is a beautiful, clear lake found deep in the wild, undeveloped areas of California. It's a special type of lake called a glacial lake. This means it was carved out by huge sheets of ice, called glaciers, a very long time ago.
About Lake of the Woods
Lake of the Woods is located in the Desolation Wilderness. This is a protected natural area in the Eldorado National Forest. The lake is in El Dorado County, California, southwest of the much larger Lake Tahoe. It sits right next to another lake called Lake Aloha.
Where is it?
This lake is nestled high in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It's part of a beautiful, rugged landscape. The lake's elevation is about 2,453 meters (8,048 feet) above sea level. This high elevation means it can get very cold, and the lake might freeze over in winter.
How to visit
You can reach Lake of the Woods by hiking. It's a great spot for a wilderness adventure! There are a few trails you can take. You can start your hike from the Glen Alpine Springs Trailhead. Another option is the Echo Lake Trailhead. Or, you can hike north from the Twin Bridges Trailhead. These trails lead you through amazing scenery.
What lives there?
Even though it's a remote lake, Lake of the Woods is home to fish. Hikers and anglers know it for its trout. You might find Rainbow Trout swimming in its clear waters. Brook Trout also live in the lake. Fishing here is a popular activity for visitors.