Lockne Crater Lake
Jämtlands län
Lockne Crater Lake, known locally as Locknesjön, is a natural lake located in the Lockne district of Östersunds municipality in Jämtlands län, Sweden. It is a unique geological feature formed by a meteorite impact approximately 458 million years ago when a 600-meter section of an asteroid collided with Earth. The lake reaches a depth of 57.4 meters and covers an area of 26.6 square kilometers, situated at an elevation of 327.9 meters above sea level. Locknesjön is part of the Gimån river system and drains via the Forsaån stream into Bodsjön. The lake is situated within a Natura 2000 protected area upstream of Holmsjön, highlighting its ecological significance. This crater lake is closely linked to the nearby Målingen crater, created by another fragment of the same asteroid about 16 km to the south. The surrounding landscape consists mainly of forest and agricultural land, with a small percentage of human settlement. Lockne Crater Lake offers a rare glimpse into Earth's early geological history and is valued both scientifically and naturally for its preserved meteorite impact structure and pristine environment.
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Tip: The best time to visit Lockne Crater Lake is during the warmer months when weather conditions are favorable for outdoor activities like hiking and nature observation. Visitors should consider checking local weather and access conditions in advance, as the area is primarily natural and may have limited facilities. Since the site is part of a Natura 2000 area, it is advisable to respect local conservation rules. Although there are no formal entrance fees, visitors interested in guided tours or scientific information may benefit from contacting local tourism offices or nature centers. Advance booking is recommended for organized tours to ensure availability and better experience.
Interesting facts
- •Lockne Crater Lake is one of the best-preserved meteorite impact craters in Sweden.
- •The crater was formed by a 600-meter asteroid fragment approximately 458 million years ago during the Ordovician period.
- •A second crater, Målingen, was created by another fragment of the same asteroid about 16 kilometers south of Lockne.
- •The lake reaches a depth of 57.4 meters and covers an area of 26.6 square kilometers.
- •Lockne Crater Lake is part of the Natura 2000 network, highlighting its environmental significance.
History
Lockne Crater Lake originated approximately 458 million years ago due to a meteorite impact involving a 600-meter asteroid fragment.
This event created the Lockne crater, one of the best-preserved meteorite craters in Sweden.
Around the same time, another fragment of the asteroid formed the Målingen crater about 16 kilometers south.
Over millions of years, the crater filled with water, forming the current lake.
The surrounding area has remained relatively undisturbed, allowing the crater's geological features to be studied extensively.
The lake and its crater have since become important for scientific research and conservation efforts.