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Pod the Road Again: St. Mary Lake

St. Mary Lake in Glacier National Park is culturally and historically significant, as it was named by Hudson Bay Company employee Hugh Monroe in the 1840s for the Virgin Mary, and its turquoise sheen is due to the suspension of tiny particles of glacial rock in the lake's water. The lake has been a vital part of Native American travel routes and has been shaped by glacial forces, with five glaciers feeding it, including the Sexton Glacier. The area has also been influenced by early settlers and Native American tribes, with the Blackfeet tribes historically using the region for hunting, gathering, and spiritual journeys. Additionally, the lake's surroundings have been impacted by significant events such as the Great Flood of 1964, which devastated the St. Mary Lodge and surrounding areas. Today, visitors can experience the lake's natural beauty and learn about its rich cultural and historical significance through various exhibits and programs within the park.


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More About St. Mary Lake

The second-largest lake in the park, known for its dramatic setting and Wild Goose Island.

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