Downs Mountain facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Downs Mountain |
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 Downs Mountain
Location in Wyoming
Downs Mountain
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 13,355 ft (4,071 m) |
| Prominence | 1,549 ft (472 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Fremont / Sublette counties, Wyoming, U.S. |
| Parent range | Wind River Range |
| Topo map | USGS Downs Mountain |
| Geology | |
| Mountain type | Batholith |
Downs Mountain is a tall mountain in the Wind River Range in Wyoming, a state in the United States. It stands at 13,355 ft (4,071 m) high. This makes it one of the tallest peaks in Wyoming, ranking as the 15th highest.
The very top of Downs Mountain is special. It sits right on the Continental Divide. This is like a giant line across North America. Rain and snow that fall on one side flow to the Atlantic Ocean. On the other side, they flow to the Pacific Ocean. The summit is also part of two national forests: Shoshone National Forest and Bridger-Teton National Forest.
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About Downs Mountain
Downs Mountain is a huge rock formation. It is known as a Batholith. This means it formed deep underground from melted rock. Over millions of years, the rock above it wore away. This revealed the hard rock that makes up the mountain today.
Glaciers on the Mountain
Several glaciers are found on Downs Mountain. Glaciers are large, slow-moving rivers of ice. The East Torrey Glacier is on the northern side of the mountain. The Continental Glacier is to the west and north. About 1 mi (1.6 km) to the south, you can find the Downs Glacier. These glaciers are important parts of the mountain's environment. They show how cold and icy the high parts of the mountain can be.
Staying Safe in the Mountains
Exploring mountains like Downs Mountain is exciting. However, it is important to be prepared and safe. The Wind River Range is a wild place. It has many natural challenges.
Wildlife and Weather
One thing to be aware of is bears. It is important to know how to act around them. This helps keep both people and bears safe. Other things to watch out for include bugs and wildfires. Always check the weather forecast before you go. Mountain weather can change very quickly. You might experience snow or very cold temperatures at night.
Challenging Terrain
The mountain has some very steep and rocky areas. These parts can be tricky to climb. It is important to be careful where you step. Always wear proper hiking boots. If you are exploring, make sure you have the right gear. It is always a good idea to go with an experienced adult. They can help you stay safe on your adventure.
