Flagstone Peak (Fremont County, Wyoming) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Flagstone Peak |
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 Flagstone Peak
Location in Wyoming
Flagstone Peak
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 13,456 ft (4,101 m) |
| Prominence | 810 ft (250 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Fremont / Sublette counties, Wyoming, U.S. |
| Parent range | Wind River Range |
| Topo map | USGS Gannett Peak |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | 1946 |
Flagstone Peak is a tall mountain in the Wind River Range in Wyoming, USA. It stands at about 13,456 ft (4,101 m) high. This makes it the 12th highest mountain in Wyoming! The top of Flagstone Peak sits right on the Continental Divide. This is a special line where rivers on one side flow to the Atlantic Ocean, and rivers on the other side flow to the Pacific Ocean.
The mountain is part of two large national forests: Shoshone National Forest and Bridger-Teton National Forest. A smaller peak, called Flagstone Peak-Southeast Peak, is about .25 mi (0.40 km) to the southeast. It is about 13,160 ft (4,010 m) tall. The first time someone climbed Flagstone Peak was in 1946.
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Staying Safe on Flagstone Peak
Climbing or hiking in the Wind River Range can be an amazing adventure. But it's important to know about some things that can make it tricky. Being prepared helps everyone have a safe and fun trip.
Wildlife Encounters
When you are in the mountains, you might see bears. It's important to know what to do if you see one. Always keep your food safe and clean up after yourself. This helps keep both people and animals safe. Other small creatures like bugs can also be around, so bug spray can be helpful.
Weather and Nature Challenges
The weather in the mountains can change very quickly. Even in summer, nights can get very cold. It's important to bring warm clothes, even if the day starts sunny. Sometimes, there can be wildfires in the area, so always check local news before you go. Snow can also be tricky, even in warmer months, so be ready for different ground conditions.
Important Safety Tips for Hikers
Hiking on mountains like Flagstone Peak means you need to be careful. The ground can be uneven, and there are steep parts. It's important to watch your step very carefully. Sometimes, small rocks can come loose and fall. Always wear good hiking boots and pay attention to where you are walking.
Over the years, there have been some serious accidents in the Wind River Range. These often involve people getting hurt from falls or falling rocks. For example, in 2005, a backpacker was seriously injured and needed to be rescued by helicopter near SquareTop Mountain. In 2006, a hiker had a serious fall that led to a large search and rescue effort. These stories remind us to always be prepared and careful.
The U.S. Forest Service works hard to keep visitors safe. They encourage everyone to learn about mountain safety before heading out. Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back.
