Basket Dome facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Basket Dome |
|
|---|---|
Basket Dome to the right of North Dome
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 7,612 ft (2,320 m) NGVD 29 |
| Prominence | 212 ft (65 m) |
| Geography | |
 Basket Dome
Location in California
Basket Dome
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Mariposa County, California, U.S. |
| Parent range | Sierra Nevada |
| Topo map | USGS Yosemite Falls |
Basket Dome is a large, rounded rock formation called a granite dome. You can find it in Yosemite National Park in the United States. It stands tall among the park's amazing natural wonders.
This dome is part of the famous Sierra Nevada mountain range. It's known for its smooth, curved shape, which makes it look like a giant basket.
Contents
What is Basket Dome?
Basket Dome is a type of mountain feature known as a granite dome. These domes are formed from strong granite rock. Over millions of years, layers of rock above them wear away. This process is called erosion.
As the weight of the top layers is removed, the granite expands. This causes it to crack and peel off in curved sheets. This peeling process is called exfoliation. It gives domes like Basket Dome their smooth, rounded appearance.
Where is Basket Dome Located?
Basket Dome is located in Mariposa County, California. It is a key part of Yosemite National Park. This park is famous for its stunning valleys, waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees.
The dome is found near other well-known spots in Yosemite. It is often seen alongside North Dome. You can spot it from various viewpoints in the park.
How Tall is Basket Dome?
Basket Dome reaches an elevation of about 7,612 feet (2,320 meters) above sea level. While it's not the tallest peak in Yosemite, its unique shape makes it stand out.
Its prominence is about 212 feet (65 meters). Prominence measures how much a peak rises above the lowest point connecting it to a higher peak. This means it rises significantly from the land around it.
The Legend Behind the Name
Basket Dome got its name from a fascinating Native American legend. The story comes from the Miwok people, who have lived in the Yosemite area for a very long time.
The legend tells of a woman who was carrying a basket. She became very angry, and because of her anger, she was turned into stone. This stone formation became the dome we see today. This story shows how the Miwok people connected their lives and beliefs to the natural world around them.
Exploring Basket Dome
Basket Dome is a popular spot for hikers and climbers. Its granite surface offers challenges for experienced climbers. However, many people also enjoy hiking to viewpoints where they can admire the dome from a distance.
When visiting Yosemite National Park, you can see Basket Dome from several trails. It's a great place to take photos and enjoy the park's incredible scenery. Remember to always stay on marked trails and respect the park's rules to protect its natural beauty.
