Located just south of the castle and extending up to the edge of mountains in the distance is a half-mile wide body of freshwater known as the Black Lake (or the Great Lake). This is where the first years catch sight of Hogwarts for the first time when the Groundskeeper takes them across by boat, and where the seventh years set sail to new adventures on their graduation day. To the left side of the lakeshore is the way to the boathouse containing those seldom-used school vessels and other aquatic equipment.

If you decide to dip your toes in or feel brave enough for a swim in the chilly lake water, please be mindful of the many magical creatures inhabiting the lake. Grindylows, merpeople, selkies, and more all call the Black Lake home. On a warm day, you may even spot a tentacle wrapped around a stone in the shallows near the shore. Bartholomew Henry, the semi-domesticated Giant Squid, still hangs out here from time to time. Farther down the shores of the lake and heading toward the forest is a large white tomb belonging to a legendary former Hogwarts Headmaster, and a sandy stretch of shore where a certain Azkaban escapee was once saved by a stag patronus.

Whether you skip a stone or just sit and contemplate the serenity of the water, remember that you're walking along the path of history when you visit the shores of the Black Lake.

OOC: This probably goes without saying, but please do not RP for the Giant Squid! He DOES go here!