Balsam Cap facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Balsam Cap |
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 Balsam Cap
Location in New York
Balsam Cap
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 3,623 ft (1,104 m) NGVD 29 |
| Prominence | 243 ft (74 m) |
| Listing | Catskill High Peaks 24th |
| Geography | |
| Location | Shandaken, Ulster County, New York |
| Parent range | Catskill Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS West Shokan |
Balsam Cap is a mountain located in Ulster County, New York. It is part of the famous Catskill Mountains. This mountain is special because of its location and how water flows from its slopes.
Balsam Cap sits between two other mountains. To its north, you'll find Friday Mountain. To its southwest, there's Rocky Mountain.
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What is Balsam Cap?
Balsam Cap is one of the many peaks in the Catskill Mountains. It stands tall in New York State. Mountains like Balsam Cap are important parts of our natural world. They help shape the land and provide homes for many plants and animals.
How Tall is Balsam Cap?
Balsam Cap reaches an elevation of 3,623 feet (about 1,104 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the higher peaks in the Catskills. Climbing mountains can be a fun adventure for experienced hikers.
Water Flowing from Balsam Cap
One interesting thing about Balsam Cap is how water flows from its sides. Rain and melting snow on the mountain don't just disappear. They travel down the slopes and form streams and rivers. This is called a watershed.
What is a Watershed?
A watershed is like a giant funnel. All the water that falls on a mountain or a specific area eventually drains into a common point. This could be a river, a lake, or even the ocean. Balsam Cap's water flows in different directions, feeding several important waterways.
Water's Journey to the Hudson River
The northeast and southeast sides of Balsam Cap send their water into Maltby Hollow Brook. This brook then joins Bush Kill, which flows into the Ashokan Reservoir. The reservoir is a big lake that stores drinking water. From there, the water goes into Esopus Creek, and finally into the mighty Hudson River. The Hudson River eventually reaches New York Bay.
Water's Journey to the Delaware River
The northwest side of Balsam Cap has a different path for its water. This water flows into the East Branch of the Neversink River. The Neversink River is a tributary of the Delaware River. The Delaware River then flows into Delaware Bay. This shows how water from one mountain can end up in different major rivers and even different bays!
Exploring the Catskill Park
Balsam Cap is located within the Slide Mountain Wilderness. This wilderness area is part of Catskill State Park in New York. State parks and wilderness areas are protected lands. They are important for keeping nature safe and healthy.
Why are Parks Important?
Places like Catskill State Park allow people to enjoy nature. They offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and observing wildlife. Protecting these areas helps preserve natural beauty for future generations. It also keeps habitats safe for animals and plants.
