Lakes of the Clouds facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lakes of the Clouds |
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One of the Lakes of the Clouds
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 Lakes of the Clouds
Location in New Hampshire
Lakes of the Clouds
Location in the United States
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| Location | Coos County, New Hampshire; White Mountain National Forest |
| Coordinates | 44°15′31″N 71°19′8″W / 44.25861°N 71.31889°W |
| Primary outflows | Ammonoosuc River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 0.6 acres (2,428 m2) |
| Surface elevation | 5,032 ft (1,534 m) |
The Lakes of the Clouds are a group of small, beautiful lakes found high up in the mountains. They are located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, a state in the United States. These special lakes sit between two famous peaks: Mount Monroe and Mount Washington. They are also the starting point for the Ammonoosuc River, which later flows into the larger Connecticut River.
What are the Lakes of the Clouds?
The Lakes of the Clouds are a type of lake called a tarn. A tarn is a lake that forms in a hollow or bowl-shaped area created by a glacier in the mountains. These lakes are very high up, at an elevation of about 5,032 ft (1,534 m) above sea level. This makes them one of the highest groups of lakes in New Hampshire.
Visiting the Lakes
Many hikers love to visit the Lakes of the Clouds. Right next to the lakes is the Lakes of the Clouds Hut. This is a special lodge where hikers can stay overnight. It is run by the Appalachian Mountain Club.
You can reach the lakes by hiking on several trails. One popular way is to start from Marshfield Station. This station is part of the Mount Washington Cog Railway. From there, you can take the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail. The hike usually takes about four hours. Other trails that pass by the lakes include the Crawford Path and the Dry River Trail. The Crawford Path is also part of the famous Appalachian Trail.
