Thunderbolt Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Thunderbolt Peak |
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Polemonium, North Palisade, Starlight, Thunderbolt Peaks
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 14,009 ft (4,270 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 203 ft (62 m) |
| Parent peak | North Palisade |
| Listing |
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| Geography | |
 Thunderbolt Peak
Location in California
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| Location | Fresno and Inyo counties, California, U.S. |
| Parent range | Sierra Nevada |
| Topo map | USGS North Palisade |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | August 13, 1931 by Robert Underhill, Norman Clyde, Bestor Robinson, Francis Farbquar, Glen Dawson, Lewis Clark and Jules Eichorn |
| Easiest route | Technical climb, class 4, by several routes |
Thunderbolt Peak is a tall mountain found in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California, U.S.. It is part of a group of peaks called the Palisades. This mountain stands at an impressive height of 14,009 feet (4,270 meters).
Even though it is very tall, Thunderbolt Peak is often seen as a smaller part of a nearby, even taller mountain called North Palisade. This is because Thunderbolt Peak does not rise very far above the land around its base. However, if we consider it a separate mountain, Thunderbolt Peak is the most northern "fourteener" in the Sierra Nevada. A "fourteener" is a mountain peak that is 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) or higher.
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About Thunderbolt Peak
Thunderbolt Peak is located in both Fresno and Inyo counties in California. It is a well-known spot for experienced climbers. The mountain is listed as a "Mountaineers peak" by the Sierra Peaks Section and a "Western Climbers Star peak." This means it is a challenging and rewarding climb for those who love mountain adventures.
Where is Thunderbolt Peak?
This peak is nestled within the beautiful Kings Canyon National Park and the John Muir Wilderness. These areas are protected lands known for their stunning natural beauty, including tall mountains, deep valleys, and clear lakes. The mountain's location makes it a popular destination for hikers and climbers who want to explore the wild parts of the Sierra Nevada.
How Thunderbolt Peak Got Its Name
The name "Thunderbolt Peak" comes from an exciting event that happened during the first attempt to climb the mountain. A group of famous climbers tried to reach the top on August 13, 1931. During their climb, a lightning bolt struck very close to one of the climbers, Jules Eichorn. This sudden strike made him lose his focus for a moment. The mountain was named Thunderbolt Peak to remember this powerful and memorable event.
First Climbers to Reach the Top
The first successful climb to the top of Thunderbolt Peak was a big achievement. The climbing team included several well-known mountaineers:
- Robert Underhill
- Norman Clyde
- Bestor Robinson
- Francis Farquhar
- Glen Dawson
- Lewis Clark
- Jules Eichorn
These climbers made history by being the first to conquer this challenging peak. Reaching the summit of Thunderbolt Peak requires a technical climb, which means climbers need special equipment and skills to get to the top.
