Summit Lake (Oregon) facts for kids

There are seven beautiful lakes in the U.S. state of Oregon that share a special name: Summit Lake. Imagine finding seven different places with the exact same name! This happens because "summit" often means the highest point of a mountain or hill. Many of these lakes are found in high places, making them quite unique.

Exploring Oregon's Summit Lakes

Oregon is a state known for its stunning natural beauty, including many lakes. When you hear about a "Summit Lake," it usually means a lake located at a high elevation, often near the top of a mountain or a mountain pass. These lakes are often fed by snowmelt and rain, and they can be very clear and cold.

What's in a Name?

The word "summit" means the highest point of something, like the top of a mountain. So, it makes sense that lakes named Summit Lake are often found in high places. These lakes are usually smaller and can be harder to reach than lakes in valleys, making them feel like hidden gems.

Different Lakes, Same Name

Even though they share a name, each Summit Lake in Oregon is special and located in a different part of the state. Here's a look at some of them:

• Summit Lake in Clackamas County: This lake is found at an elevation of about 4,183 feet (1,275 meters). It's located in the northern part of Oregon, known for its forests and mountains.
• Summit Lake in Jackson County (North): One of two lakes named Summit Lake in Jackson County, this one sits at about 4,744 feet (1,446 meters) above sea level. Jackson County is in southern Oregon.
• Summit Lake in Jackson County (South): The second Summit Lake in Jackson County is even higher, at around 5,755 feet (1,754 meters). It's located further south in the county.
• Summit Lake in Klamath County: This lake is quite high up, at about 5,558 feet (1,694 meters). Klamath County is in south-central Oregon, known for its large lakes and volcanic features.
• Summit Lake in Jefferson County: Located in central Oregon, this Summit Lake is one of the highest, reaching an elevation of about 5,909 feet (1,801 meters).
• Little Summit Lake: While not exactly "Summit Lake," this smaller lake is very close to one of the main Summit Lakes in Baker County. It's incredibly high, at about 6,952 feet (2,119 meters).
• Summit Lake in Baker County: This is the highest of all the Summit Lakes in Oregon, sitting at an impressive 7,251 feet (2,210 meters). Baker County is in eastern Oregon, known for its rugged mountains.

These lakes are important parts of Oregon's natural landscape, offering beautiful views and a chance to explore the state's high-altitude environments.