Upper Two Medicine Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Upper Two Medicine Lake |
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Upper Two Medicine Lake and Lone Walker Mountain in background
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 Upper Two Medicine Lake
Location in Montana
Upper Two Medicine Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Glacier National Park, Glacier County, Montana, US |
| Coordinates | 48°27′50″N 113°27′43″W / 48.46389°N 113.46194°W |
| Type | Natural |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 1.10 miles (1.77 km) |
| Max. width | .20 miles (0.32 km) |
| Surface elevation | 5,403 ft (1,647 m) |
Upper Two Medicine Lake is a beautiful lake located in Glacier National Park in the state of Montana, USA. This stunning lake is found in the Two Medicine region of the park. It sits just east of the Continental Divide, which is like a giant imaginary line that separates the direction rivers flow across North America.
Upper Two Medicine Lake is nestled in a special type of valley called a cirque. A cirque is a bowl-shaped hollow carved by glaciers. The lake is surrounded by several impressive mountains, including Lone Walker Mountain, Mount Helen, and Pumpelly Pillar. You can reach Upper Two Medicine Lake by taking a 5 miles (8.0 km) hike from the Two Medicine Store.
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Exploring Upper Two Medicine Lake
Upper Two Medicine Lake is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The trail to the lake offers amazing views of the surrounding wilderness. It's a great place to experience the beauty of Glacier National Park.
What is a Cirque?
A cirque is a natural basin shaped like a half-open bowl. These unique landforms are created by the powerful movement of glaciers. As a glacier slowly moves down a mountain, it scoops out rock and debris, leaving behind this distinctive shape. Upper Two Medicine Lake fills one of these ancient glacial bowls.
The Continental Divide
The Continental Divide is a major geographical feature. It's a high ridge that runs through the Americas. On one side, rivers and streams flow towards the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico. On the other side, they flow towards the Pacific Ocean. Upper Two Medicine Lake is on the eastern side, meaning its waters eventually make their way to the Atlantic.
Nearby Peaks and Scenery
The mountains around Upper Two Medicine Lake are part of the Rocky Mountains. These peaks, like Lone Walker Mountain and Mount Helen, add to the dramatic scenery. The area is known for its rugged beauty, clear waters, and diverse plant life. It's a perfect example of the wild landscapes found in Glacier National Park.
