Linkins Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Linkins Lake |
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Linkins Lake
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 Linkins Lake
Location in Colorado
Linkins Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Pitkin County, Colorado, United States |
| Coordinates | 39°07′42″N 106°35′19″W / 39.128463°N 106.588643°W |
| Type | Glacial |
| Primary outflows | Creek to Roaring Fork River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 0.20 mi (0.32 km) |
| Max. width | 0.13 mi (0.21 km) |
| Surface elevation | 12,008 ft (3,660 m) |
Linkins Lake is a beautiful alpine lake found in Pitkin County, Colorado, United States. It sits high up in the Sawatch Range mountains. This special lake is part of the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness area, which is inside the White River National Forest. Linkins Lake is known for its stunning mountain views and clear, cold water.
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What is Linkins Lake?
Linkins Lake is an example of an alpine lake. This means it is located at a very high elevation in the mountains. It is also a glacial lake. This type of lake was formed a long, long time ago by glaciers. Glaciers are like giant, slow-moving rivers of ice. As they moved, they carved out valleys and hollows in the land. When the glaciers melted, these hollows filled with water, creating lakes like Linkins Lake.
Where is Linkins Lake Located?
Linkins Lake is in the state of Colorado, USA. It is specifically in Pitkin County. The lake is nestled within the Sawatch Range, which is a major mountain range in Colorado. This area is part of the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness. A wilderness area is a protected place where nature is left wild and untouched by human development. It is also part of the larger White River National Forest, which is a huge area of public land managed for recreation and conservation.
How to Visit Linkins Lake
Getting to Linkins Lake is an adventure! You can reach it by hiking a trail that is about 0.6 miles (0.97 km) long. The trail starts from State Highway 82. This highway is located west of Independence Pass. Independence Pass is a high mountain pass that offers amazing views. The hike to Linkins Lake is a great way to experience the beauty of the Colorado mountains.
Nature Around Linkins Lake
The area around Linkins Lake is home to many types of plants and animals. Because it is an alpine environment, the plants are often hardy. You might see wildflowers blooming in the summer. These flowers are adapted to the short growing season and cold temperatures.
Wildlife in the Mountains
Many animals live in the Sawatch Range and the White River National Forest. You might spot different kinds of birds flying overhead. Keep an eye out for small mammals like marmots or pikas. Larger animals like deer or elk might also be in the area. Remember to always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Protecting the Wilderness
Linkins Lake is part of a wilderness area. This means it is important to protect its natural beauty. When you visit, remember to practice "Leave No Trace" principles. This means:
- Pack out everything you pack in.
- Stay on marked trails.
- Do not disturb plants or animals.
- Respect other visitors and the environment.
By following these rules, everyone can continue to enjoy the wild beauty of Linkins Lake for many years to come.
