List of lakes of Carbon County, Montana facts for kids

Carbon County, Montana, is a beautiful place known for its amazing natural scenery, especially its many lakes and reservoirs. These bodies of water are super important for the environment and for people living in the area. They provide homes for wildlife, offer fun places for outdoor activities, and supply water for communities. In Carbon County, you can find at least 178 named lakes and reservoirs, each with its own unique features!

What's the Difference: Lakes vs. Reservoirs?

It's good to know the difference between a lake and a reservoir.

• A lake is usually a natural body of water. It forms in low areas where water collects, often from rain, melting snow, or underground springs. Many of the lakes in Carbon County were carved out by ancient glaciers!
• A reservoir is a man-made lake. People build dams across rivers or streams to create reservoirs. These are used for many things, like storing drinking water, helping farmers water their crops, generating electricity, and providing places for boating and fishing.

Lakes of Carbon County

Carbon County is home to many stunning natural lakes, especially high up in the mountains. These lakes are often found in peaceful, wild areas, making them perfect for hiking and exploring. They are usually very clear and cold, and many are home to different kinds of fish.

Some of the many beautiful lakes you can find include:

• Abandoned Lake, 45°00′36″N 109°36′11″W / 45.01000°N 109.60306°W / 45.01000; -109.60306 (Abandoned Lake), sitting high up at about 10,036 feet (3,059 meters).
• Albino Lake, 45°00′52″N 109°34′47″W / 45.01444°N 109.57972°W / 45.01444; -109.57972 (Albino Lake), another high-altitude lake at around 9,990 feet (3,045 meters).
• Alp Lake, 45°03′16″N 109°38′59″W / 45.05444°N 109.64972°W / 45.05444; -109.64972 (Alp Lake), at about 9,770 feet (2,978 meters).
• Arrowhead Lake, 45°01′58″N 109°36′20″W / 45.03278°N 109.60556°W / 45.03278; -109.60556 (Arrowhead Lake), one of the higher ones at 10,341 feet (3,152 meters).
• Big Moose Lake, 45°00′04″N 109°45′43″W / 45.00111°N 109.76194°W / 45.00111; -109.76194 (Big Moose Lake), a bit lower at 8,018 feet (2,444 meters).
• Crystal Lake, 45°02′57″N 109°38′28″W / 45.04917°N 109.64111°W / 45.04917; -109.64111 (Crystal Lake), known for its clear waters at 9,875 feet (3,010 meters).
• East Rosebud Lake, 45°11′51″N 109°38′35″W / 45.19750°N 109.64306°W / 45.19750; -109.64306 (East Rosebud Lake), a popular spot at 6,214 feet (1,894 meters).
• Hidden Lake, 45°00′20″N 109°37′37″W / 45.00556°N 109.62694°W / 45.00556; -109.62694 (Hidden Lake), tucked away at 9,468 feet (2,886 meters).
• Lake Mary, 45°09′08″N 109°33′51″W / 45.15222°N 109.56417°W / 45.15222; -109.56417 (Lake Mary), at 9,957 feet (3,035 meters).
• Lost Lake, 45°11′40″N 109°41′18″W / 45.19444°N 109.68833°W / 45.19444; -109.68833 (Lost Lake), one of several with this name, at 9,153 feet (2,790 meters).
• Rainbow Lake, 45°08′06″N 109°41′30″W / 45.13500°N 109.69167°W / 45.13500; -109.69167 (Rainbow Lake), a beautiful name for a lake at 7,775 feet (2,370 meters).
• Shadow Lake, 45°06′05″N 109°35′09″W / 45.10139°N 109.58583°W / 45.10139; -109.58583 (Shadow Lake), at 9,580 feet (2,919 meters).
• Summit Lake, 45°06′25″N 109°41′03″W / 45.10694°N 109.68417°W / 45.10694; -109.68417 (Summit Lake), near a peak at 9,619 feet (2,932 meters).

These lakes are often surrounded by forests and mountains, providing breathtaking views and a peaceful escape.

Reservoirs: Man-Made Water Sources

In addition to natural lakes, Carbon County also has important reservoirs. These are built to manage water resources and provide benefits to the community.

Some of the reservoirs in the county include:

• Adams Reservoir, 45°04′18″N 108°40′08″W / 45.07167°N 108.66889°W / 45.07167; -108.66889 (Adams Reservoir), at 4,475 feet (1,364 meters).
• Cooney Reservoir, 45°26′57″N 109°12′05″W / 45.44917°N 109.20139°W / 45.44917; -109.20139 (Cooney Reservoir), a very well-known spot for recreation, at 4,255 feet (1,297 meters).
• Depression Reservoir, 45°11′35″N 108°48′47″W / 45.19306°N 108.81306°W / 45.19306; -108.81306 (Depression Reservoir), at 3,947 feet (1,203 meters).
• Hunters Reservoir, 45°04′18″N 108°50′51″W / 45.07167°N 108.84750°W / 45.07167; -108.84750 (Hunters Reservoir), at 4,426 feet (1,349 meters).
• Monroe Reservoir, 45°06′48″N 109°03′01″W / 45.11333°N 109.05028°W / 45.11333; -109.05028 (Monroe Reservoir), at 4,003 feet (1,220 meters).

Cooney Reservoir, for example, is a popular place for fishing, boating, and camping. It's a great example of how reservoirs can serve both practical needs and recreational fun!

Why So Many Lakes?

The reason Carbon County has so many lakes, especially high up in the mountains, is mostly because of its geography and history. The area is part of the Beartooth Mountains, which are very tall and rugged. Thousands of years ago, huge glaciers moved through these mountains, carving out deep valleys and basins. When the glaciers melted, these basins filled with water, creating the many beautiful lakes we see today.

Fun Activities on the Water

These lakes and reservoirs offer tons of outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. You can go:

• Fishing: Many lakes are stocked with trout and other fish.
• Boating: From small canoes to motorboats, depending on the size of the water body.
• Hiking: Trails often lead to and around these beautiful lakes, offering stunning views.
• Camping: Many areas around the lakes have campgrounds where you can stay and enjoy nature.
• Wildlife Watching: The areas around the lakes are home to many animals, like deer, elk, and various birds.

Exploring the lakes and reservoirs of Carbon County is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Montana!

See also

• List of lakes in Montana