Chase Lake Wilderness – Image Gallery

Chase Lake Wilderness

Chase Lake Wilderness is a remote and pristine area in North Dakota known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty.

Details

Chase Lake Wilderness

The Chase Lake Wilderness is a designated wilderness area located in the state of North Dakota. It covers an area of approximately 4,385 acres and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as part of the Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

Features:

• The wilderness is characterized by its stunning prairie landscape, which includes rolling hills, grasslands, and wetlands.
• Chase Lake itself is a central feature of the wilderness, providing important habitat for a variety of bird species, including the largest nesting colony of American white pelicans in North Dakota.
• The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and various bird species.
• Visitors to the wilderness can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and photography in this serene and remote setting.

Ecological Significance:

The Chase Lake Wilderness plays a crucial role in conserving and protecting the unique prairie ecosystem of North Dakota. The area provides important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, many of which are rare or endangered.

Additionally, Chase Lake itself is a vital resting and nesting area for migratory bird species, making it an important stopover point along their migration routes.

By preserving the wilderness area, we are helping to ensure the long-term health and survival of these species, as well as maintaining the natural beauty and ecological diversity of North Dakota.

Chase Lake Wilderness

Points of Interest

1. Chase Lake

Nestled in the heart of the Chase Lake Wilderness, Chase Lake is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors can also explore the surrounding hiking trails and enjoy picnicking by the lake.

2. Mount O'Malley

Standing at an impressive height of 8,650 feet, Mount O'Malley offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. Hikers and climbers flock to the mountain to challenge themselves and take in the stunning vistas from the summit. The rugged terrain and challenging trails make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

3. Chase Lake Falls

Located just a short hike from Chase Lake, Chase Lake Falls is a majestic waterfall cascading down a series of rocky cliffs. The sight and sound of the rushing water make it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. Visitors can relax by the base of the falls and enjoy the serene beauty of the wilderness.

4. Chase Lake Lookout

For those seeking a bird's eye view of the Chase Lake Wilderness, the Chase Lake Lookout is the perfect destination. Perched high atop a rocky outcrop, the lookout offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes. Visitors can bring a picnic and spend hours taking in the stunning scenery from this vantage point.

5. Wilderness Campgrounds

For those looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Chase Lake Wilderness overnight, there are several wilderness campgrounds scattered throughout the area. These secluded campsites offer a peaceful and serene setting for campers to enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors can pitch a tent, build a campfire, and fall asleep under the stars in this pristine wilderness setting.

Chase Lake Wilderness – Images

Description: Aerial view of one of three nesting islands at Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge in North Dakota. Credit: USFWS

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Sun dogs during winter. Photo: Brandon Jones/USFWS

Image by USFWS Mountain Prairie – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: This sunrise was seen just behind the Chase Lake Headquarters office. Photo Credit: USFWS

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: Aerial view of larger nesting island showing large flocks of pelicans. Over 10,200 pelicans nested at Chase Lake NWR in North Dakota in 2010. Credit: USFWS

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Two of the three nesting islands found in Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). View from the southeast. The north island contains mostly California and Ring-Billed Gulls. Credit: USFWS

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: American White Pelicans at Chase Lake Wetland Management District, North Dakota, U.S.

Image by AnonymousUnknown author – Public domain – Wikimedia

Description: The white pelican is the largest of all pelicans; with a 10-foot wingspan weighing in around 20 pounds.Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is home to one of the largest white pelican nesting colonies in North America. Credit: Rick Bohn Prairie Pothole Region

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: The white pelican is the largest of all pelicans; with a 10-foot wingspan weighing in around 20 pounds.Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is home to one of the largest white pelican nesting colonies in North America. Credit: Rick Bohn Prairie Pothole Region

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: The white pelican is the largest of all pelicans; with a 10-foot wingspan weighing in around 20 pounds.Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge is home to one of the largest white pelican nesting colonies in North America. Credit: Rick Bohn Prairie Pothole Region

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia

Description: Two of the three nesting islands found in Chase Lake National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). View from the south. The larger south island contains thousands of American White Pelicans, Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, Cattle Egrets, Black-Crowned Night-Herons, Little-Blue Herons, and White-Faced Ibis. Credit: USFWS

Image by USFWS Mountain-Prairie – CC BY 2.0 – Wikimedia