Ozero Chebakul', Protected lake in Chelyabinsk Oblast, Russia.
Lake Chebakul is a body of water in the southern Ural region of Chelyabinsk Oblast, sitting at about 330 meters elevation. It supports a variety of plant and animal species and is surrounded by gentle rolling terrain.
The lake became widely known after a dramatic event in February 2013 when meteorite fragments broke through its frozen surface, punching a hole about 6 meters across in the ice. This event brought international attention and scientific interest to the region.
The name comes from Bashkir and Tatar languages, meaning 'many-colored lake' because of how the water changes appearance through the seasons. Local people view this place as an important part of their region's identity and natural heritage.
The best time to visit is during warmer months when you can enjoy walking trails, fishing, and swimming around the lake. Several paths circle the shoreline and offer different levels of difficulty for various visitors.
While the lake is known for the meteorite impact, it also serves as a protected nature reserve that helps maintain the region's ecological balance. This conservation role is less talked about than the dramatic 2013 event but just as important to the local environment.
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