Minaret Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Minaret Lake |
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with The Minarets behind
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 Minaret Lake
Location in California
Minaret Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Ansel Adams Wilderness, Sierra Nevada, Madera County, California, United States |
| Coordinates | 37°39′35″N 119°09′29″W / 37.65972°N 119.15806°W |
| Primary outflows | Minaret Creek |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface elevation | 9,800 feet (3,000 m) |
Minaret Lake is a beautiful lake found high up in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California. It's located in a special area called the Ritter Range, which is a smaller part of the Sierra Nevada. The lake sits in the very northeastern corner of Madera County.
Minaret Lake is also part of the Ansel Adams Wilderness, a protected natural area, and is managed by the Inyo National Forest. It's a popular spot for adventurers and nature lovers.
About Minaret Lake
Minaret Lake is known for its stunning mountain views. It's located at a high elevation of about 9,800 feet (2,987 meters) above sea level. The lake gets its name from the sharp, pointed mountain peaks nearby called The Minarets. These peaks look like tall towers or spires.
The lake is fed by melting snow and ice from the surrounding mountains. Its water eventually flows out into Minaret Creek. The area around the lake is rugged and wild, making it a perfect place for outdoor activities.
Exploring the Area
Minaret Lake is a famous stop along the Sierra High Route. This route is a challenging, long-distance hiking trail that goes through the high Sierra Nevada mountains. It's not a marked trail but a path that experienced hikers follow using maps and their outdoor skills.
Ansel Adams Wilderness
The lake is located inside the Ansel Adams Wilderness. A wilderness area is a place where the land is kept as natural as possible. There are no roads, buildings, or permanent structures allowed. People can visit these areas for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature, but they must follow strict rules to protect the environment. This wilderness area is named after the famous photographer Ansel Adams, who took many pictures of the Sierra Nevada.
Inyo National Forest
Minaret Lake is also part of the Inyo National Forest. National Forests are large areas of land managed by the U.S. Forest Service. They are used for many purposes, including recreation, wildlife protection, and sometimes timber harvesting. The Inyo National Forest is known for its diverse landscapes, from deserts to high mountain peaks.
