Garfield Peak (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Garfield Peak |
|
|---|---|
 Garfield Peak
Location in Colorado
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 13,787 ft (4,202 m) |
| Prominence | 360 ft (110 m) |
| Isolation | 0.83 mi (1.34 km) |
| Parent peak | Grizzly Peak |
| Geography | |
| Location | Continental Divide between Chaffee and Pitkin counties, Colorado, United States |
| Parent range | Sawatch Range, Collegiate Peaks |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Independence Pass, Colorado |
Garfield Peak is a very tall mountain peak in the Rocky Mountains of North America. It is located in the Collegiate Peaks area of the Sawatch Range in Colorado, United States. This impressive mountain stands at 13,787-foot (4,202 m) (about 4,202 meters) above sea level. It is named in honor of James A. Garfield, who served as the 20th President of the United States.
Contents
About Garfield Peak
Garfield Peak is a significant part of the Sawatch Range in Colorado. It's known for its height and its location on an important natural boundary.
Where is Garfield Peak Located?
This mountain is found in the central part of Colorado. It sits right on the Continental Divide. This divide is like a giant natural line that separates which way water flows across the continent. On one side, water flows to the Pacific Ocean, and on the other, it flows to the Atlantic Ocean.
Garfield Peak is located about 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) south-southwest of Independence Pass. It marks the border between Chaffee County and Pitkin County. The mountain is also part of both the San Isabel National Forest and the White River National Forest. These are protected areas known for their beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
How Tall is Garfield Peak?
Garfield Peak reaches an elevation of 13,787-foot (4,202 m). In Colorado, mountains over 14,000 feet are called "fourteeners." Mountains between 13,000 and 13,999 feet are often called "thirteeners." Garfield Peak is a "thirteener," meaning it's one of the many very high peaks in the state. Climbing mountains like Garfield Peak is a popular challenge for experienced hikers and climbers.
Who Was James A. Garfield?
Garfield Peak was named to honor James A. Garfield. He was an important figure in American history.
Garfield's Life and Presidency
James A. Garfield was born in 1831 in Ohio. He had a remarkable career before becoming president. He was a teacher, a lawyer, and a general in the American Civil War. After the war, he served for many years in the United States Congress.
In 1881, James A. Garfield became the 20th President of the United States. His time as president was very short. He was unfortunately shot just a few months after taking office and died later that year. Even though his presidency was brief, he is remembered for his dedication to public service. Naming a mountain after him is a way to honor his legacy.
