Snow Lake (Mount Rainier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Snow Lake |
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Snow Lake, Mount Rainier National Park
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 Snow Lake
Location in Washington (state)
Snow Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Mount Rainier National Park, Lewis County, Washington, US |
| Coordinates | 46°45′26″N 121°41′53″W / 46.75722°N 121.69806°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface elevation | 4,685 feet (1,428 m) |
Snow Lake is a beautiful, clear lake located high up in the mountains of Washington State. It's found inside the amazing Mount Rainier National Park, a place famous for its huge volcano, Mount Rainier. This special lake sits in a bowl-shaped area carved out by ancient ice. It is nestled below a mountain called Unicorn Peak, which is part of the Tatoosh Range. Snow Lake is also a popular spot for hikers, with a trail that stretches about seven miles.
Discovering Snow Lake
Snow Lake is a small but important part of the natural beauty found in the Pacific Northwest. It's known for its clear water and the stunning mountain views all around it. The lake is a great example of how glaciers have shaped the land over thousands of years.
Where is Snow Lake?
Snow Lake is located in Lewis County, Washington, within the boundaries of Mount Rainier National Park. This national park is a very popular place for people to visit. It protects Mount Rainier, which is a large active volcano, and the beautiful wilderness around it. The lake sits at an elevation of about 4,685 feet (1,428 meters) above sea level.
What is a Glacial Cirque?
Snow Lake is found in a "glacial cirque." Imagine a giant scoop taken out of the side of a mountain. That's what a cirque is! It's a bowl-shaped hollow that was carved out by a glacier. Long ago, a huge mass of ice slowly moved down the mountain, grinding away the rock. When the ice melted, it left behind this bowl, which then filled with water to become a lake. Snow Lake is a perfect example of this natural process.
Hiking to Snow Lake
For those who love to explore, there is a hiking trail that leads right to Snow Lake. The trail is about seven miles long, which means it's a good distance for a day hike. Hikers can enjoy incredible views of the Tatoosh Range and the surrounding forest as they make their way to the lake. The Tatoosh Range is a rugged group of mountains located just south of Mount Rainier. It offers many challenging and rewarding trails for outdoor adventurers.
