Moosehead Lake facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Moosehead Lake
Location	Maine
Coordinates	45°38′N 69°39′W / 45.633°N 69.650°W / 45.633; -69.650
Type	mesotrophic
Primary inflows	Moose River
Primary outflows	Kennebec River
Catchment area	1268 sqmi
Basin countries	United States
Max. length	40 miles
Max. width	10 miles
Surface area	75451 acres
Average depth	55 feet
Max. depth	246 feet
Residence time	3.1 years
Shore length1	280.8 miles
Surface elevation	1029 feet
Islands	>80 (Sugar Island)
1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure.

Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine, a state in the United States. It is located in the north-central part of Maine. This huge lake is famous for its unique shape, which looks a lot like a moose's head! It is a very popular spot for outdoor adventures.

The lake is quite large, stretching about 40 miles (64 km) long and 10 miles (16 km) wide. It covers an area of about 75,451 acres. The deepest part of the lake is 246 feet (75 meters) deep, which is like stacking more than 40 tall teenagers on top of each other!

There are over 80 islands in Moosehead Lake. The largest of these islands is called Sugar Island.

Exploring Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake is a fantastic place for many fun activities. It attracts visitors from all over who love nature and the outdoors.

Water Activities

The lake is perfect for activities on the water.

• Boating: Many people enjoy taking boats out on the lake. You can explore different coves and even visit some of the islands.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddling a kayak or canoe is a great way to see the lake up close. You can find quiet spots and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
• Fishing: Moosehead Lake is known for its excellent fishing. Anglers often catch fish like brook trout, salmon, and lake trout.
• Swimming: On warm days, swimming in the clear waters of the lake is a refreshing activity.

Land Adventures

Around the lake, there are also many things to do on land.

• Hiking: There are many trails around Moosehead Lake. These trails let you explore the forests and enjoy amazing views of the lake and mountains.
• Wildlife Watching: The area around the lake is home to lots of wildlife. You might spot moose, deer, black bear, and many kinds of birds.
• Camping: Many people like to camp near the lake. It's a great way to spend time in nature and enjoy the quiet nights.
• Snowmobiling: In winter, the area becomes a popular spot for snowmobiling. There are many miles of trails for this exciting sport.

Nature and Wildlife

Moosehead Lake is part of a large natural area. This area is often called the North Maine Woods. It is one of the biggest undeveloped forest areas in the eastern United States.

Forests and Plants

The forests around the lake are mostly made up of conifer trees like pine, spruce, and fir. There are also deciduous trees like maple and birch. These trees provide homes for many animals.

Animals of the Lake

The lake and its surrounding areas are home to many different animals.

• Moose: As the name suggests, moose are very common here. They are the largest members of the deer family.
• Fish: The lake is full of fish, including native brook trout and landlocked salmon.
• Birds: Many types of birds live near the lake. You might see bald eagles, osprey, and various waterfowl.

History of the Lake

The area around Moosehead Lake has a rich history.

• Native Americans: Long ago, the Wabanaki people lived around the lake. They used the lake for travel and fishing.
• Logging: In the 1800s, logging became a big industry in the area. Loggers would cut down trees and float them down the rivers from the lake.
• Tourism: Over time, Moosehead Lake became a popular place for tourists. People came to hunt, fish, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Today, Moosehead Lake remains an important natural resource and a beloved destination for outdoor lovers.

Images for kids

• 

  Hunters at Camp Russell, northeast of Moosehead Lake, 1888

• 

  Shoreline in 1912

See also

In Spanish: Lago Moosehead para niños