Elkhorn Mountain (Washington) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Elkhorn Mountain |
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 Elkhorn Mountain
Location in Washington (state)
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,225 ft (678 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Clark County, Washington, U.S. |
| Parent range | Cascades |
| Topo map | USGS Larch Mountain |
Elkhorn Mountain is a mountain located in Clark County, Washington, in the United States. It stands tall northeast of the city of Vancouver, Washington. The highest point of Elkhorn Mountain reaches about 2,228 feet (679 meters) above sea level.
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Exploring Elkhorn Mountain
Elkhorn Mountain is a notable peak in its area. It is part of the larger Cascade Range, a long chain of mountains that stretches through western North America. Even though it's not as famous as some of the taller volcanoes in the Cascades, Elkhorn Mountain is an important part of the local landscape.
Where is Elkhorn Mountain?
This mountain is found in Clark County, which is in the southwestern part of Washington state. It's located fairly close to the Columbia River, which forms the border between Washington and Oregon. The mountain's position northeast of Vancouver means it's part of the beautiful natural scenery that surrounds the city.
What is the Cascade Range?
The Cascade Range, often called the Cascades, is a major mountain range. It runs from southern British Columbia, Canada, through Washington and Oregon, and into northern California. Many of the mountains in the Cascades are volcanoes, like Mount St. Helens and Mount Rainier. Elkhorn Mountain is part of this large and impressive mountain system.
- The Cascades are known for their many peaks.
- They also have forests, rivers, and wildlife.
- The range plays a big role in the weather of the Pacific Northwest.
How Mountains are Formed
Mountains like Elkhorn Mountain are usually formed over millions of years. This happens when huge pieces of the Earth's outer layer, called tectonic plates, push against each other. When these plates collide, the land can get folded, lifted, and broken, creating tall peaks and ranges.
- This process is called orogeny, or mountain building.
- It can also involve volcanic activity, which is common in the Cascades.
- Over time, wind and water can also shape mountains.
Nature Around Elkhorn Mountain
The area around Elkhorn Mountain is likely home to various plants and animals. Mountains often create different habitats. This means you can find different types of forests and wildlife depending on the elevation and how much rain or snow the area gets.
- Forests in the region often include Douglas fir, Western Hemlock, and Western Redcedar.
- Animals like deer, elk, and various birds might live there.
- The mountain's slopes can be a great place for outdoor activities.
