Spruce Summit Lake

At an elevation of over 8000ft, Spruce Summit Lake is the highest known lake on the continent. Located deep in the Burning Mountains, the lake is surrounded by the continent's northernmost major stand of spruce-fir forest. Due to high rainfall, during the summer this forest is always lush and green, its floor covered with a carpet of vibrant moss and ferns of greater diversity than anywhere known outside the tropics. The lake itself is a deep blue-green and very clear, fed by numerous small streams from the surrounding mountains. The area around the lake is much cooler than the surrounding low country, making it a popular resting spot with travelers through the area. In the winter, the area can become nearly impassible due to heavy snowfall.

Entries

Spruce Summit Lake may be accessed by three different passes though the surrounding mountains. The southwest and eastern passes are the most frequented. The road through the northern pass is narrow and very steep, with many switchbacks and minor offshoots.

Hazards & Traps

The lake and the surrounding forest are widely believed to be haunted by a number of spirits that are quick to anger should anyone disrespect them. Travelers though the area need to be careful, as mysterious accidents tend to befall the selfish or arrogant. Tents should be placed carefully, preferably on bare stone so as to avoid disturbing the vegetation any more than is absolutely necessary. Hunting, fishing, and gathering are permissible, but travelers must only take what they need, and show appropriate respect and thankfulness for the lake's gifts.

Alterations

The area is considered sacred. No permanent structures or modifications to the area around the lake are allowed. In the past, fur trappers built cabins near the lake as a base of operations, but they all soon vanished and the buildings were reclaimed by the forest.

Type

Natural Wonder