Striped Elk Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Striped Elk Lake |
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 Striped Elk Lake
Location in Montana
Striped Elk Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Glacier National Park, Flathead County, Montana, US |
| Coordinates | 48°24′06″N 113°31′28″W / 48.40167°N 113.52444°W |
| Type | Natural |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | .30 mi (0.48 km) |
| Max. width | .20 mi (0.32 km) |
| Surface elevation | 6,294 ft (1,918 m) |
Striped Elk Lake is a beautiful natural lake located in Glacier National Park. This amazing park is found in the state of Montana in the US. The lake is about 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) northeast of a tall mountain called Mount Saint Nicholas.
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Where is Striped Elk Lake?
Striped Elk Lake is nestled high up in the mountains. It sits at an elevation of about 6,294 feet (1,918 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the many stunning high-altitude lakes in the park.
Glacier National Park: A Special Place
Glacier National Park is often called the "Crown of the Continent." It is famous for its rugged mountains, deep forests, and many lakes. The park covers over 1 million acres (4,000 square kilometers). It is a very important place for wildlife and nature.
Location in Montana
Montana is a large state in the western United States. It is known for its wide-open spaces and incredible natural beauty. Glacier National Park, where Striped Elk Lake is, is a highlight of Montana's wild landscapes.
How Was Striped Elk Lake Formed?
Like many lakes in Glacier National Park, Striped Elk Lake was formed by glaciers. Glaciers are huge, slow-moving rivers of ice. Thousands of years ago, these glaciers carved out valleys and basins.
The Power of Ice
As glaciers moved, they scraped away rock and soil. When the climate warmed, the glaciers melted. The water filled the basins they had carved. This is how many of the park's beautiful lakes, including Striped Elk Lake, were created.
Nature Around the Lake
The area around Striped Elk Lake is full of diverse plants and animals. The clear, cold waters and surrounding forests provide a home for many species.
Animals of Glacier National Park
- Elk: Large deer with impressive antlers.
- Bears: Both grizzly bears and black bears live in the park.
- Mountain Goats: Agile climbers often seen on rocky slopes.
- Bighorn Sheep: Known for their large, curved horns.
- Birds: Many different types of birds, including eagles and ospreys.
Plants and Trees
The forests around Striped Elk Lake are mostly made up of conifer trees. These include fir, spruce, and pine trees. In the spring and summer, the meadows burst with colorful wildflowers.
Visiting Striped Elk Lake
Striped Elk Lake is part of the larger Glacier National Park experience. While the lake itself might be remote, the park offers many ways to enjoy nature.
Activities in the Park
- Hiking: There are many trails for all skill levels.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spotting animals in their natural habitat.
- Photography: Capturing the stunning landscapes.
- Boating: On larger, more accessible lakes.
Remember to always follow park rules and stay safe when exploring.
