Lake Smerdiacheje, Lake in Moscow Oblast, Russia

Lake Smerdiacheje is a small, round lake in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, about 4 kilometers north of the village of Bakhscheevo. It sits in a pine forest and has a depth of 35 to 40 meters, with a ring-like rim around its edge.

The lake formed thousands of years ago when a meteorite struck the area, creating a crater that later filled with water. Over time, the water level and clarity have changed with the seasons, and the surrounding pines have gradually moved closer to the shore.

The lake draws visitors with an interest in UFO sightings and mystical phenomena, who sometimes gather at its edge. Local villagers also use the water for fishing and pick wild berries in the surrounding forest.

You can drive from Moscow most of the way, but the final kilometers must be covered on foot through the forest. The ground near the shore can be uneven, so wear sturdy shoes and allow extra time for the walk.

The lake has a distinct ring-shaped rim that looks like a wall, a feature typical of impact craters. Despite its small size, it is deep enough to surprise visitors who expect a shallow pond.