The lac Noir (Black lake) is at the heart of the Ballons des Vosges regional natural park. It is twice as small (35 acres/14 ha) and shallower than its neighbor, the lac Blanc (White lake). Also of glacial origin, it is at the center of a granite cove and sits at an altitude of more than 3,000 ft (935 m). Its soil, made of black peat bogs, gives it its dark appearance. Integrated into the Biological Reserve of the Deux Lacs, it constitutes a rich set, with many species such as chamois, wild boar, lynx, kestrel, and deer.