Upper Florence Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Upper Florence Lake |
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Upper Florence Lake and Grindstone Mountain
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 Upper Florence Lake
Location in Washington (state)
Upper Florence Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Chelan County, Washington, United States |
| Coordinates | 47°39′25″N 120°56′07″W / 47.6570413°N 120.9352396°W |
| Primary outflows | Unnamed |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 6 acres (0.024 km2) |
| Surface elevation | 6,509 ft (1,984 m) |
Upper Florence Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake. You can find it high up in the mountains of Chelan County, Washington. It sits near Ladies Peak, Cape Horn, and Grindstone Mountain. This lake is a super popular spot for outdoor fun. People love to hike, swim, and fish for rainbow trout here.
A smaller lake, Lower Florence Lake, is located a bit further down the mountain from Upper Florence Lake. It's about 15 miles west of the town of Leavenworth. If you plan to visit, remember you'll need a special permit for the Alpine Lake Wilderness area.
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Upper Florence Lake: A Mountain Gem
Upper Florence Lake is a stunning natural area. It's a great place to explore the outdoors. The lake is known for its clear waters and amazing mountain views. It's a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer adventure.
Who Named This Lake?
The name "Florence Lake" was given by Albert Hale Sylvester. He was a topographer, which means he mapped out land. Mr. Sylvester worked for the United States Geological Survey. He explored the North Cascades area around the year 1900. He named many lakes in the region, including Florence Lake.
How to Reach the Lake
Getting to Upper Florence Lake is an adventure in itself! Most people start their journey at the Chatter Creek Trailhead. This trailhead is at the end of USFS Road 7609. It's located near the north shore of Icicle Creek.
Chatter Creek Trail
The main path is called Chatter Creek Trail #1580. This trail is about 5.5 miles long. It follows along Chatter Creek for most of the way. As you hike, you'll pass by Lake Sylvester and Lake Alice. Eventually, this trail connects with the Icicle Ridge Trail #1580. This meeting point is on the north side of Grindstone Mountain.
To get to Upper Florence Lake, you'll turn left off the Icicle Ridge Trail. The Icicle Ridge Trail will then curve left and lead you straight towards Upper Florence Lake. It's about three-quarters of a mile down the slope over Mary Ridge. Lower Florence Lake is even further down the ridge.
Other Ways to Get There
You can also get to the Icicle Ridge Trail from other paths. One option is the Fourth of July Trail #1579. Another way is from the Icicle Ridge Trailhead. This trailhead is located off Icicle Road in the city of Leavenworth.
Important Permits for Your Trip
If you plan to hike in this area, you'll need a special permit. It's called a self-issued Alpine Lake Wilderness permit. You need this permit to travel within the Sylvester Lake area. You can usually get these permits at the Chatter Creek Trailhead. They are also available at the Campground, past the Guard station. Make sure to get one before you start your hike!
