Cockscomb Mountain (Alberta) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cockscomb Mountain |
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 2,776 m (9,108 ft) |
Prominence | 217 m (712 ft) |
Listing | Mountains of Alberta |
Geography | |
Location | Banff National Park Alberta, Canada |
Parent range | Sawback Range Canadian Rockies |
Topo map | NTS 82O/04 |
Cockscomb Mountain is a cool peak located in the Sawback Range in Alberta, Canada. It got its name in 1921 because its top looks a bit like the comb on a rooster's head! This mountain is part of the amazing Canadian Rockies.
What is Cockscomb Mountain Made Of?
This mountain is mostly made of sedimentary rock. Think of sedimentary rock as layers of sand, mud, and tiny bits of old shells that piled up over millions of years. These layers were laid down during different time periods, from the Precambrian era all the way to the Jurassic period.
How Did the Mountain Form?
Long, long ago, these rocks formed at the bottom of shallow seas. Over time, huge forces deep inside the Earth pushed these rock layers. This pushing, called the Laramide orogeny, caused the rocks to fold and lift up. It even pushed older rocks on top of younger ones, creating the mountains we see today, like Cockscomb Mountain!
What's the Weather Like on Cockscomb Mountain?
Cockscomb Mountain is in a subarctic climate zone. This means it has very cold and snowy winters. Summers are usually mild, not too hot.
Temperatures and Snow
During winter, temperatures can drop really low, sometimes even below −20 °C. When the wind blows, it can feel even colder, sometimes below −30 °C! So, it's a very chilly place in the colder months.
Water from the Mountain
When snow melts or rain falls on Cockscomb Mountain, the water flows down its sides. This water eventually drains into smaller streams and rivers that are connected to the Bow River.