Burroughs Range facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Burroughs Range |
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 Burroughs Range
Location in New York
Burroughs Range
Location in the United States
Burroughs Range
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 4,180 feet (1,270 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | West Shokan, New York, U.S. |
| Topo map | USGS Phoenicia |
The Burroughs Range is a group of mountains found in the beautiful Catskill Mountains of New York state. It is located southeast of a town called West Shokan. This mountain range is special because it includes three important peaks: Cornell Mountain, Slide Mountain, and Wittenberg Mountain. Slide Mountain is actually the highest point in the entire Catskill Mountains!
The range was named after a famous person named John Burroughs. He was a nature writer who loved to observe nature very closely. He would write about what he saw, often adding his own poetic or thoughtful ideas. Nearby, you can find Romer Mountain to the northeast and Friday Mountain to the south of the Burroughs Range.
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What is the Burroughs Range?
The Burroughs Range is a part of the larger Catskill Mountains system. It is not just one mountain, but a collection of peaks that rise together. These mountains are known for their natural beauty and offer amazing views. They are a popular spot for people who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Where is the Burroughs Range Located?
This mountain range is in Ulster County, New York. It's easy to find on a map, sitting southeast of the small community of West Shokan. Its location makes it a key part of the central Catskills.
How High is the Burroughs Range?
While the range itself doesn't have one single height, its highest peak is Slide Mountain. Slide Mountain reaches an elevation of 4,180 feet (1,274 meters). This makes it the tallest mountain in the Catskills. The other peaks in the range are also quite tall, offering challenging hikes.
Meet the Peaks of the Range
The Burroughs Range is made up of three main mountains. Each one has its own unique features and challenges for hikers.
Slide Mountain: The Catskills' Tallest
Slide Mountain is the king of the Catskills. It stands taller than any other peak in the region. Many hikers aim to reach its summit to enjoy the incredible panoramic views. The trails to the top are well-known and offer a great adventure.
Cornell Mountain: A Neighboring Giant
Next to Slide Mountain is Cornell Mountain. It's another significant peak in the range. Cornell Mountain is often hiked along with Slide Mountain, as part of a longer and more challenging trail. It offers different perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
Wittenberg Mountain: The Eastern Gateway
Wittenberg Mountain is the third major peak in the Burroughs Range. It's often considered the easternmost peak of the main group. Like its neighbors, Wittenberg Mountain provides beautiful forest trails and rewarding views from its summit.
Who Was John Burroughs?
The Burroughs Range is named after a very special person, John Burroughs (1837–1921). He was an American naturalist and essayist. This means he spent a lot of time studying nature and writing about it.
A Lover of Nature
John Burroughs loved to explore the outdoors. He would carefully watch birds, animals, and plants. Then, he would write down his observations in a way that made nature come alive for his readers. His writings often shared his deep thoughts and feelings about the natural world. He helped many people appreciate the beauty around them.
Burroughs' Connection to the Catskills
John Burroughs spent a lot of his life in the Catskill Mountains. He had a cabin there and found much inspiration for his writing in the area. Naming a mountain range after him is a way to honor his important work and his love for this region.
Exploring the Catskill Mountains
The Burroughs Range is just one part of the larger and famous Catskill Mountains. The Catskills are a large area of mountains in southeastern New York State.
What Makes the Catskills Special?
The Catskills are known for their beautiful forests, clear streams, and many waterfalls. They are a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing in winter. The mountains are also rich in history and folklore.
Fun Activities in the Mountains
If you visit the Burroughs Range or other parts of the Catskills, you can enjoy many activities.
- Hiking: There are many trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs.
- Nature Observation: You can spot different kinds of birds, animals, and plants.
- Photography: The scenery is perfect for taking amazing pictures.
- Camping: Many areas offer places to set up a tent and spend the night under the stars.
The Burroughs Range is a wonderful place to explore and connect with nature, just like John Burroughs did.
