Stoney Indian Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stoney Indian Lake |
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View of Stoney Indian Lake from Stoney Indian Pass
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 Stoney Indian Lake
Location in Montana
Stoney Indian Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Glacier National Park, Glacier County, Montana, US |
| Coordinates | 48°53′10″N 113°51′58″W / 48.88611°N 113.86611°W |
| Type | Natural |
| Primary outflows | Pass Creek |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | .20 mi (0.32 km) |
| Max. width | .15 mi (0.24 km) |
| Surface elevation | 6,325 ft (1,928 m) |
Stoney Indian Lake is a beautiful natural lake located in Glacier National Park. This amazing park is found in the state of Montana in the U.S.. The lake sits northeast of Wahcheechee Mountain and south of the towering Stoney Indian Peaks.
Contents
Discovering Stoney Indian Lake
Stoney Indian Lake is a small but important part of the Glacier National Park landscape. It's a natural lake, meaning it formed on its own, not by people. The lake is quite high up, at an elevation of about 6,325 feet (1,928 meters) above sea level.
Size and Location
The lake is not very big, measuring about 0.20 miles (0.32 kilometers) long and 0.15 miles (0.24 kilometers) wide. Even though it's small, it's a key feature in its area. Water flows into the lake from nearby streams and flows out through a stream called Pass Creek. This creek eventually joins other waters in the park.
What Makes It Special?
Stoney Indian Lake is known for its clear, cold waters. It reflects the stunning mountains and skies around it. The lake is surrounded by rugged peaks and green forests, making it a very peaceful place. It's a great spot for hikers to rest and enjoy nature's beauty.
Glacier National Park: A Natural Treasure
Stoney Indian Lake is just one of many wonders within Glacier National Park. This park is a huge protected area. It covers over 1 million acres (4,000 square kilometers) in northern Montana. It shares a border with Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. Together, they form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Why National Parks Are Important
National parks like Glacier are created to protect special places. They keep nature wild and beautiful for everyone to enjoy. They also protect animals and plants that live there. These parks are like outdoor classrooms where you can learn about geology, wildlife, and ecosystems.
Mountains and Glaciers
Glacier National Park is famous for its tall, jagged mountains. These mountains were carved by ancient glaciers. Glaciers are huge, slow-moving rivers of ice. While many of the park's glaciers have shrunk, they shaped the land we see today. The park's name comes from these powerful ice formations.
Wildlife of the Park
The area around Stoney Indian Lake and throughout Glacier National Park is home to many animals. You might see large mammals like grizzly bears, black bears, and moose. Smaller animals like marmots and pikas also live here. The park is a safe home for these creatures.
Plants and Trees
The forests around Stoney Indian Lake are filled with different types of trees. These include lodgepole pines and Douglas firs. In the spring and summer, the meadows burst with colorful wildflowers. These plants provide food and shelter for the park's animals.
Exploring the Area
Stoney Indian Lake is not easily reached by car. It requires a hike to get there. This makes it a quiet and unspoiled destination for those who love adventure.
Hiking Trails
There are several hiking trails that pass near Stoney Indian Lake. These trails offer amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Hikers can experience the park's wilderness up close. It's important to be prepared for hiking in this area.
Safety in the Wilderness
When visiting places like Stoney Indian Lake, it's important to be safe. Hikers should carry water, snacks, and maps. It's also wise to make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife. Being respectful of nature helps keep both people and animals safe.
