Lake Mattmark, Alpine reservoir in Saas-Almagell, Switzerland.
Lake Mattmark is a reservoir in the Saas Valley at approximately 2143 meters elevation, held back by one of Europe's largest earth dams. The water collects glacial meltwater and is used to generate electricity for the region.
The lake was created in the mid-20th century through construction of a major dam. This project opened up glacial waters in the area as a power source and fundamentally changed the landscape.
The water draws hikers who use the trail to take in mountain views from elevated perspectives. People come here to spend time outdoors and experience the high-altitude landscape.
The circular trail around the water is easy to walk and takes about two and a half hours without major climbs. Summer is the best time to hike when snow has melted and the paths are dry.
The dam was built under difficult conditions at high elevation and was considered an engineering achievement when completed. A visitor center in a restaurant building displays the dam's history and explains how power generation works here.
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