Upper Hanson Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Upper Hanson Lake |
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Location | Custer County, Idaho |
Coordinates | 44°12′38″N 115°07′23″W / 44.210444°N 115.123067°W |
Type | Glacial |
Primary outflows | Creek to Stanley Lake Creek to Salmon River |
Basin countries | United States |
Max. length | 0.21 mi (0.34 km) |
Max. width | 0.04 mi (0.064 km) |
Surface elevation | 8,520 ft (2,600 m) |
Upper Hansen Lake is a beautiful alpine lake located in Custer County, Idaho, United States. It sits high up in the Sawtooth Mountains, which are part of the amazing Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
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About Upper Hansen Lake
Upper Hansen Lake is a special kind of lake called a glacial lake. This means it was formed by glaciers moving and shaping the land long, long ago. It's found in the central part of Idaho, a state known for its stunning mountains and clear waters.
Where is Upper Hansen Lake?
This lake is about 8.7 miles (14.0 km) west of a small town called Stanley. Stanley is a popular spot for people who love the outdoors. The lake is nestled within the Sawtooth National Forest, which is a huge area of protected land.
How to Visit the Lake
Getting to Upper Hansen Lake is an adventure! You can reach it by hiking on Sawtooth National Forest trail 640. This trail starts from the Stanley Lake trailhead. To get to the trailhead, you'll take forest service road 455, which branches off from State Highway 21. It's a great way to explore the wilderness.
The Hansen Lakes Family
Upper Hansen Lake is actually the smallest of three lakes named Hansen Lakes. Just a short distance downhill from Upper Hansen Lake, you'll find Lower Hansen Lake and Middle Hansen Lake. These three lakes are connected by a stream.
The stream that flows out of the Hansen Lakes is quite scenic. It goes over a beautiful waterfall called Bridal Veil Falls before it joins Stanley Lake Creek. This creek then eventually flows into the Salmon River, one of Idaho's most famous rivers.