Erskine Valley facts for kids
Erskine Valley is a beautiful, green valley found on Lord Howe Island in Australia. This island is located in the Tasman Sea, which is part of the Pacific Ocean. The valley is nestled between two tall mountains, Mount Lidgbird to the north and Mount Gower to the south.
The valley is about one kilometre long and wide. It has steep sides covered in thick forest. A stream called Erskine Creek flows through it all year round, even during dry seasons. You can also find several small waterfalls along the creek.
Erskine Valley is a popular spot for hikers. A well-known trail to the top of Mount Gower goes right through it. The valley was named after Thomas Erskine, who was a very important lawyer and politician in the United Kingdom around 1806. He held the title of Lord Chancellor, which meant he was in charge of the justice system.
Exploring Erskine Valley
In 1889, a scientist named Robert Etheridge described Erskine Valley. He called it a "deep and wide depression" that leads down to the coast. He noted that the valley's sides were covered with rocks and volcanic material, mixed with very dense plants.
The Saddle and Winds
Etheridge also described a narrow "saddle" at the top of the valley. This saddle connects Mount Lidgbird and Mount Gower. It's only about 20 to 30 yards wide and is covered with large rocks and low, twisted plants.
These twisted plants show how strong the winds can be in the valley. Etheridge explained that Erskine Valley acts like a "funnel," guiding strong winds and gales through it. He even experienced a powerful storm while camping there! He estimated the saddle was nearly 2,000 feet (about 610 metres) above sea level.
