Wrights Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wrights Lake |
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 Wrights Lake
Location in California
Wrights Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | El Dorado County, California, United States |
| Coordinates | 38°51′N 120°14′W / 38.850°N 120.233°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Average depth | 5 ft (1.5 m) |
| Max. depth | 8 ft (2.4 m) |
| Residence time | 90+ years |
| Surface elevation | over 6,900 ft (2,100 m) |
| Islands | None |
Wrights Lake is a beautiful lake located high up in the Sierra Nevada mountains in California, United States. It's found west of the famous Lake Tahoe and right next to a special wild area called the Desolation Wilderness. It's a great spot for adventurers and nature lovers!
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Discover Wrights Lake: A Mountain Gem
Wrights Lake is a peaceful place in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It sits on the western edge of the Desolation Wilderness, a large area of protected wild land. The lake is known for its calm waters and the stunning mountain views around it.
Finding Wrights Lake
Wrights Lake is located in El Dorado County, California. To reach this peaceful lake, you usually drive along U.S. Route 50 and then turn onto Ice House Road. From there, you take Wrights Road directly to the lake.
Seasonal Access
It's important to know that Wrights Road is not cleared of snow in the winter. This means you cannot drive to the lake during the colder months. It's best to visit Wrights Lake when the snow has melted, usually from late spring to early fall.
Exploring the Desolation Wilderness
Wrights Lake is a popular starting point for hikers who want to explore the western parts of the Desolation Wilderness. There's a special path called the Twin Lakes trailhead near the lake. This trail leads you into the wilderness, where you can find other lakes, tall trees, and amazing views.
What is the Desolation Wilderness?
The Desolation Wilderness is a protected area where nature is left mostly untouched. It's a place for hiking, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Because it's a wilderness area, there are rules to help keep it wild and beautiful for everyone.
Lake Features and Facts
Wrights Lake is not very deep. Its average depth is about 5 feet, and its deepest point is around 8 feet. The water in the lake stays there for a long time, over 90 years, before it flows out. This long "residence time" means the water is very still and clear.
High Elevation Lake
The lake is located at a high elevation, over 6,900 feet above sea level. This high altitude means the area has cooler temperatures and is surrounded by mountain forests. There are no islands in Wrights Lake, making it a wide, open body of water.
