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Sandstone Peak facts for kids

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Sandstone Peak
Mount Allen
Looking at Sandstone Peak from Inspiration Point.jpg
Highest point
Elevation 3,114 ft (949 m) NAVD 88
Prominence 2,201 ft (671 m)
Isolation 21.37 mi (34.39 km)
Geography
Sandstone Peak is located in California
Sandstone Peak
Sandstone Peak
Location in California
Sandstone Peak is located in the United States
Sandstone Peak
Sandstone Peak
Location in the United States
Location Ventura County, California, U.S.
Parent range Santa Monica Mountains
Topo map USGS Triunfo Pass
Climbing
Easiest route via Backbone Trail and spur, class 2

Sandstone Peak, also known as Mount Allen, is a tall mountain in Ventura County, California. It is the highest point in the Santa Monica Mountains, standing at about 3,114 feet (949 meters) high. This peak is located near the western part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.

From the top of Sandstone Peak, you can see amazing views. You can look out over Malibu, the huge Pacific Ocean, and the city of Santa Monica. You can also spot the Conejo Valley and even four of the Channel Islands far away. The mountain helps separate the drier inland areas from the more humid coast.

Exploring Sandstone Peak: Trails and Activities

Sandstone Peak is a favorite spot for many outdoor lovers. People enjoy climbing, hiking, camping, and taking photos here. The Sandstone Peak Trail leads right to the top of the mountain.

Hiking the Backbone Trail

This trail connects to a large network of paths in the area. One of the most famous is the Backbone Trail. This long trail stretches across the Santa Monica Mountains, offering many adventures for hikers.

Why is it Called Sandstone Peak?

The name "Sandstone Peak" comes from the type of rock that makes up the mountain. Sandstone is a common rock found in this area. It often has beautiful layers and colors.

The Story Behind Mount Allen

The mountain is also known as Mount Allen. This name was suggested by the Boy Scouts of America. They wanted to honor W. Herbert Allen. He was a very generous person who donated land for Boy Scout camps nearby. One of these camps was Camp Circle X.

A Naming Policy

Mr. Allen was also the president of the Los Angeles Area Council for the Boy Scouts. The United States Board on Geographic Names decided not to approve the name "Mount Allen" at that time. This was because of a rule they had: they usually did not name places after people who were still alive. Today, the land Mr. Allen donated is part of the Circle X Ranch, which is a park within the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area.

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