Craig Pass facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Craig Pass |
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The Continental Divide at the Craig Pass
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| Elevation | 2,518.3 m (8,262 ft) |
| Traversed by | U.S. Route 191 |
| Location | Teton County, Wyoming, United States |
| Coordinates | 44°26′30″N 110°43′11″W / 44.44167°N 110.71972°W |
 Location in Wyoming
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Craig Pass is a mountain pass in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. It sits high up at 8,262 feet (2,518 m) above sea level. This pass is special because it crosses the Continental Divide. The famous Grand Loop Road goes right over it. It's about 8 miles (13 km) east of the amazing Old Faithful Geyser.
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What is Craig Pass?
Craig Pass is a high point where a road crosses over mountains. It is found in the beautiful Yellowstone National Park. This pass is part of the U.S. Route 191 and the Grand Loop Road. Driving through it offers stunning views of the park.
Why is it called Craig Pass?
The pass was named by Hiram Chittenden. He was a very important engineer who helped build roads in Yellowstone. He named it after Ida M. Craig (Wilcox). She was the daughter of his good friend, General James Craig. People say that Ida Craig was the very first tourist to travel over the pass. This happened in September 1891, right after the road was finished.
The Continental Divide at Craig Pass
Craig Pass is located right on the Continental Divide. This is a special line that runs through North and South America. It separates the water that flows to the Pacific Ocean from the water that flows to the Atlantic Ocean. When rain or snow falls on one side of the Divide, it goes to one ocean. If it falls on the other side, it goes to the other ocean!
Isa Lake: A Unique Lake on the Divide
Just west of Craig Pass, you will find a small lake called Isa Lake. This lake is very unusual because it sits right on the Continental Divide. Even more amazing, it drains water in two different directions! Water from Isa Lake flows to the Atlantic Ocean through the Missouri River. It also flows to the Pacific Ocean through the Snake River. This makes Isa Lake a truly unique natural wonder.
