kids encyclopedia robot

Chinese Wall (Montana) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Chinese Wall from below looking south
View from below the Chinese Wall looking south
View of the Wall from Prairie Reef Lookout
View of the Wall from Prairie Reef Lookout. Wall can be seen going across the photo from centre left to centre right (below the horizon)
A view of the wall directly facing west.
A view of the wall directly facing west.

The Chinese Wall is an amazing natural rock formation located in the Bob Marshall Wilderness Area in Montana, USA. It's like a giant, long cliff or a steep slope, which scientists call an escarpment. Imagine a huge, natural wall made of rock!

While some people say this wall stretches for up to forty miles, the most famous and continuous part is about twelve miles long. The Chinese Wall is also a special part of the Continental Divide. This means that if rain or snow falls on one side of the wall, its water will eventually flow all the way to the Atlantic Ocean (through the Gulf of Mexico). But if it falls on the other side, that water will travel to the Pacific Ocean! It's like a giant natural split for water.

Visiting the Chinese Wall

Getting to the Chinese Wall is an adventure! Most people start their journey from a place called Benchmark Trailhead.

How to Reach the Wall

Reaching the wall isn't a quick trip. It usually takes hikers several days to get there because it's about 18 miles (nearly 29 kilometers) from the trailhead. It's a long hike, but the views are worth it!

Trails and Rules

A famous long-distance path called the Continental Divide Trail actually passes right below the Chinese Wall. This trail follows the Continental Divide through North America.

To protect this beautiful and delicate natural area, there are special rules. You are not allowed to camp directly along the wall. This helps keep the plants and animals safe from too many visitors. It's important to respect these rules so everyone can enjoy the wilderness for many years to come.

Images for kids

kids search engine
Chinese Wall (Montana) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.