Graham Peak (Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Graham Peak |
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 Graham Peak
Location in Idaho
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 8,867 ft (2,703 m) |
| Prominence | 667 ft (203 m) |
| Parent peak | Cache Peak |
| Geography | |
| Location | Cassia County, Idaho, U.S. |
| Parent range | Albion Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Almo |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Four wheel drive road |
Graham Peak is a tall and impressive mountain located in the state of Idaho, United States. It stands high in the Albion Mountains, which are known for their rugged beauty. This peak is an important part of the natural landscape in Cassia County and offers amazing views of the surrounding area.
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Graham Peak: A Tall Mountain in Idaho
Graham Peak reaches an elevation of 8,867 feet (2,703 m) above sea level. This makes it the fourth highest mountain in the entire Albion Mountains range. Imagine standing on top and looking out over miles of forests and other peaks!
Where is Graham Peak?
Graham Peak is found in a special place called the City of Rocks National Reserve. This reserve is famous for its unique rock formations and is a popular spot for climbers and hikers. The peak is also very close to the border of the Sawtooth National Forest, which is another vast natural area. It is located about 5.13 mi (8.26 km) south-southwest of Cache Peak, which is the highest point in the Albion Mountains.
How Tall is Graham Peak?
Standing at 8,867 feet (2,703 meters), Graham Peak is quite tall. While it's not the very highest mountain in Idaho, it's still a significant peak in its mountain range. Its height contributes to the diverse ecosystems found on its slopes, from forests to rocky areas near the summit.
Exploring the Peak: Getting to the Top
For those who want to reach the top of Graham Peak, there's a forest road, number 707, that goes directly to the summit. This road is often used by four-wheel-drive vehicles, making it easier to access the peak's high points. Reaching the summit can be an exciting adventure, offering incredible panoramic views.
Special Plants: The Davis's Springparsley
Graham Peak is not just known for its height and views; it's also home to a very special plant called Cymopterus davisii. This plant is also known as Davis's Springparsley. It's a rare species, meaning it doesn't grow in many places.
Why is This Plant Special?
Davis's Springparsley is important because it's an endemic species. This means it only grows in a specific area and nowhere else in the world. On Graham Peak, there is one of the smallest known groups of these plants. Scientists estimate there are only about 500 to 1,000 individual plants here.
Protecting Rare Plants
Because Davis's Springparsley is so rare, it's very important to protect its habitat on Graham Peak. Conservation efforts help ensure that these unique plants can continue to grow and thrive. Protecting rare species helps keep our planet's biodiversity rich and healthy for future generations.
