Chehalem Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chehalem Range |
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|---|---|
Southeast from Bald Peak.
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| Highest point | |
| Peak | Bald Peak |
| Elevation | 1,629 ft (497 m) |
| Geography | |
| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| Borders on | Oregon Coast Range |
The Chehalem Mountains are a beautiful mountain range in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, a state in the United States. These mountains form the southern edge of the Tualatin Valley. They are known for being the highest mountains in the Willamette Valley area.
The Chehalem Mountains stretch from the Willamette River, near the town of Newberg, all the way northwest to the lower hills of the Oregon Coast Range, close to Forest Grove.
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What's in a Name? The Chehalem Story
The name "Chehalem" comes from an old word used by the Atfalati Native American people. In 1877, one group of the Atfalati was called "Chahelim." Over time, this name changed slightly to become "Chehalem," which is what we call these mountains today.
Exploring the Chehalem Mountains' Geography
The Chehalem Mountains are like one big piece of land. It was pushed up by powerful forces deep inside the Earth. This process is called tectonic activity.
Within this mountain range, you'll find several smaller hills and ridges. Some of these include Parrett Mountain and Ribbon Ridge.
Discovering Bald Peak: The Highest Point
The very highest spot in the Chehalem Mountain Range is called Bald Peak. This peak rises to about 1,629 feet (496 meters) above sea level. Bald Peak is also the highest point in the entire Willamette Valley.
Chehalem Mountains AVA: A Special Wine Region
The Chehalem Mountains are also famous for something special: wine! This area is recognized as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). An AVA is a special grape-growing region that has unique features like its climate and soil. The Chehalem Mountains AVA was officially named in 2006. This means the grapes grown here have a distinct quality.
