Teslin Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Teslin Lake |
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 Teslin Lake
Location in British Columbia
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| Location | British Columbia/Yukon |
| Coordinates | 60°1′N 132°26′W / 60.017°N 132.433°W |
| Primary inflows | Hayes River, Jennings River, Swift River, Teslin River |
| Primary outflows | Teslin River |
| Basin countries | Canada |
| Max. length | 120 km (75 mi) |
| Max. width | 5 km (3.1 mi) |
| Surface elevation | 684 m (2,244 ft) |
| Settlements | Teslin |
Teslin Lake is a large lake located in Canada. It stretches across the border between British Columbia and Yukon. This beautiful lake is part of a group of big lakes in the far northwestern part of British Columbia.
These lakes are sometimes called "the Southern Lakes" in Yukon. They include Atlin Lake and Tagish Lake. Bennett and Lindeman Lake are also part of this group. These lakes are important because they are the starting points for the Yukon River.
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About Teslin Lake
Teslin Lake gets its water mainly from the Teslin River. This river also carries water out of the lake. Other rivers flow into Teslin Lake too. These include the Jennings River and the Swift River from the east. The Hayes River flows into the lake from the west.
What Does "Teslin" Mean?
The name "Teslin" has an interesting meaning. According to the Yukon Geographical Names Project, "Teslin" means "long water." This makes sense because the lake is very long!
The local Tlingit language also has a name for the people living near the lake. They are called Deisleen Kwáan. This means "Big Sinew Tribe."
First Nations and Communities
Several First Nations communities live around Teslin Lake. These communities are important parts of the area's history and culture.
Communities in British Columbia
Around the southern end of the lake, in British Columbia, there are three Indian Reserves. These belong to the Taku River Tlingit First Nation. They are:
- Jennings River Indian Reserve No. 8
- Teslin Lake Indian Reserve No. 7
- Teslin Lake Indian Reserve No. 9
A long time ago, a trading post was located in this area. It was run by the Hudson's Bay Company.
Communities in Yukon
On the Yukon side of Teslin Lake, there are also three Indian Reserves. These belong to the Teslin Tlingit Council. They are:
- Teslin Post Indian Reserve No. 13
- Nisutlin Indian Reserve No. 14
- Nisutlin Bay Indian Reserve No. 15
The community of Teslin is also in Yukon. It is located where the Alaska Highway meets the lake. The highway follows the northern and eastern shore of the lake towards Whitehorse.
