Chief Cheley Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chief Cheley Peak |
|
|---|---|
 Chief Cheley Peak
Location in Colorado
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 12,815 ft (3,906 m) |
| Prominence | 384 ft (117 m) |
| Isolation | 0.43 mi (0.69 km) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand and Larimer counties, Colorado, United States |
| Parent range | Front Range |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Grand Lake, Colorado |
Chief Cheley Peak is a tall mountain in the Rocky Mountains of North America. It is part of the Front Range mountain chain. This amazing peak stands 12,815 feet (3,906 meters) high!
You can find Chief Cheley Peak inside the Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, United States. It is about 21.1 kilometers (13.1 miles) west of the Town of Estes Park. The mountain also sits right on the Continental Divide. This means it's on the line that separates rivers flowing to the Atlantic Ocean from those flowing to the Pacific Ocean. The peak is located where Grand and Larimer counties meet.
The mountain was named after Frank Cheley. He was an important person who taught people, especially young people, about the outdoors and nature.
Contents
Exploring Chief Cheley Peak and its Surroundings
Chief Cheley Peak is a significant part of the Rocky Mountain National Park. This park is famous for its stunning mountain views, clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. Many people visit the park to hike, camp, and enjoy nature.
What Makes This Mountain Special?
Chief Cheley Peak is one of many high points in the Front Range. The Front Range is the first mountain range you see when traveling west across the Great Plains of Colorado. These mountains are known for their rugged beauty and challenging trails.
The Continental Divide
The Continental Divide is a very important geographical feature. It runs all the way from Alaska down to South America. When rain or snow falls on Chief Cheley Peak, the water will flow in different directions depending on which side of the Divide it lands. Water on one side goes towards the Pacific Ocean, and water on the other side goes towards the Atlantic Ocean. This makes the peak a true watershed divide.
Nature and Wildlife Around the Peak
The area around Chief Cheley Peak is home to many different animals and plants. You might see elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and various types of birds. The plants change as you go up the mountain. At lower elevations, you'll find forests of pine and fir trees. Higher up, above the tree line, there are hardy alpine plants that can survive the cold and windy conditions.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
While Chief Cheley Peak itself might be a challenging climb, the surrounding Rocky Mountain National Park offers many trails for different skill levels. Hikers can explore beautiful landscapes, enjoy fresh mountain air, and experience the wilderness. It's a great place to learn about geology, ecology, and the importance of preserving natural spaces.
