Thornton Lakes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Thornton Lakes |
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The middle lake of the Thornton Lakes group
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 Thornton Lakes
Location in Washington (state)
Thornton Lakes
Location in the United States
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| Location | North Cascades National Park, Whatcom County, Washington, United States |
| Coordinates | 48°41′16″N 121°19′57″W / 48.68778°N 121.33250°W |
| Type | Cirque Lakes |
| Primary outflows | Thornton Creek |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 800 yd (730 m) |
| Max. width | 400 yd (370 m) |
| Surface elevation | 4,708 ft (1,435 m) |
Thornton Lakes are a group of three amazing lakes found deep inside North Cascades National Park in Washington. These lakes are special because they are called "paternoster lakes," which means they are connected like beads on a string. They are a bit hidden, located southeast of a big mountain called Mount Triumph.
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Exploring Thornton Lakes
Where Are These Lakes?
Thornton Lakes are nestled in the beautiful North Cascades National Park. This park is in Whatcom County, Washington, in the United States. It's a wild and rugged area known for its tall mountains, deep valleys, and many glaciers. The park is a great place to explore nature.
What Are Paternoster Lakes?
The lakes are known as "paternoster lakes." This cool name comes from the way they are formed. Imagine a string of beads. Paternoster lakes are a series of lakes connected by a single stream or river. They often form in valleys carved by glaciers. Each lake sits in its own bowl, like a bead on a string.
The Three Lakes
There are three main lakes in the Thornton Lakes group. The first one you reach is called Lower Thornton Lake. Above it are two more lakes, unofficially known as Middle and Upper Thornton Lakes. Each lake offers unique views and a peaceful setting.
Hiking to the Lakes
The Trail Adventure
Getting to Thornton Lakes is an adventure in itself! You can reach them by hiking from a trailhead in the Ross Lake National Recreation Area. The hike is about 5.2 mi (8.4 km) long. It's a challenging but rewarding journey.
The trail goes up quite a bit, with a 2,400-foot (730 m) climb in elevation. This means you'll be walking uphill for a long time. After the climb, there's a 500-foot (150 m) descent down to Lower Thornton Lake. This part goes downhill, giving your legs a bit of a break.
What to See on the Hike
As you hike, you'll pass through thick forests and open areas. You might see towering trees and colorful wildflowers. The views along the way are incredible. You'll get glimpses of the rugged North Cascades mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife too!
Camping at Thornton Lakes
Sleeping Under the Stars
If you love camping, there's a special spot at Lower Thornton Lake. It's a designated backcountry camping zone. This means it's a wilder camping experience, away from developed campgrounds. You need to carry all your gear in and out. It's a great way to truly connect with nature.
Being Safe and Respectful
When camping in the backcountry, it's important to follow park rules. Always pack out everything you pack in. This helps keep the wilderness clean and beautiful for everyone. Also, be aware of wildlife and store your food safely. This protects both you and the animals.
Nature Around the Lakes
Plants and Trees
The area around Thornton Lakes is full of amazing plant life. You'll see different types of evergreen trees, like firs and hemlocks. In the spring and summer, the meadows burst with colorful wildflowers. These plants are adapted to the mountain environment.
Animals You Might See
The North Cascades are home to many animals. While hiking to Thornton Lakes, you might spot deer grazing. Look up for birds soaring overhead, like eagles or hawks. Smaller creatures like marmots or pikas might be seen near rocky areas. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance.
