Elk Mountain (Teton County, Wyoming) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Elk Mountain |
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Elk Mountain at far right background with Owl Peak at center
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 10,720–10,800 ft (3,270–3,290 m) |
| Prominence | 1,040 ft (320 m) |
| Geography | |
 Elk Mountain
Location in Wyoming
Elk Mountain
Location in the United States
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| Location | Grand Teton National Park, Teton County, Wyoming, U.S. |
| Parent range | Teton Range |
| Topo map | USGS Ranger Peak |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Scramble |
Elk Mountain is a cool mountain located in the northern part of the Teton Range. You can find it inside Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, USA. This peak is part of a ridge that sits just west of another mountain called Owl Peak.
Scientists aren't exactly sure how tall Elk Mountain is. They estimate its height to be between 10,720 and 10,800 feet (about 3,267 to 3,292 meters). It's special because it's the most northern peak in the Teton Range that's over 10,000 feet tall. As you go north from Elk Mountain, the Teton Mountains gradually blend into the Yellowstone Plateau.
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Exploring Elk Mountain and the Tetons
Elk Mountain is a significant part of the famous Teton Range. This mountain range is known for its sharp, jagged peaks. They rise dramatically from the flat valley floor.
Where is Elk Mountain located?
Elk Mountain is found within Grand Teton National Park. This park is a popular place for nature lovers. It offers amazing views and lots of wildlife. The mountain is in Teton County, Wyoming.
What makes the Teton Range special?
The Teton Range is a young mountain range. This means it's still actively being shaped by nature. Its peaks are very steep and rocky. This makes them challenging for climbers. The range is also home to many glaciers.
How tall is Elk Mountain?
The exact height of Elk Mountain is a bit of a mystery. Experts estimate it to be between 10,720 and 10,800 feet. That's over two miles high! This makes it one of the taller peaks in the northern Tetons.
What is "prominence" in mountains?
Elk Mountain has a "prominence" of 1,040 feet. Prominence is a way to measure how much a peak stands out. It's the vertical distance from the summit to the lowest point on the ridge connecting it to a higher peak. A high prominence means the mountain really stands out from its surroundings.
Wildlife and Nature Around Elk Mountain
The area around Elk Mountain is full of amazing wildlife. Grand Teton National Park protects many different animals. You might spot some of them if you visit.
What animals live near Elk Mountain?
The park is home to large animals like elk, moose, and grizzly bears. You might also see smaller creatures. These include mule deer, bighorn sheep, and various bird species. The name "Elk Mountain" might even come from the many elk that live there!
What plants grow in the Teton Range?
The slopes of Elk Mountain are covered in different types of plants. Lower down, you'll find forests of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir. Higher up, the trees become sparser. You'll see alpine meadows with colorful wildflowers in the summer.
Visiting Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is a fantastic place to visit. It offers many activities for people of all ages. You can enjoy the beauty of nature and learn about the mountains.
What can you do in the park?
Popular activities include hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. You can also go boating on the lakes. In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular. Remember to always follow park rules to stay safe and protect the environment.
