Greenhorn Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Greenhorn Mountains |
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The Greenhorn Mountains
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,523 m (8,278 ft) |
| Geography | |
 Location in California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| District | Kern County, Tulare County |
| Range coordinates | 35°50′59.820″N 118°34′21.315″W / 35.84995000°N 118.57258750°W |
| Topo map | USGS Tobias Peak |
The Greenhorn Mountains are a mountain range located in the southern part of the Sierra Nevada mountains in California. These mountains are a special place. They are protected within the Sequoia National Forest. This means the natural beauty and wildlife here are kept safe for everyone to enjoy.
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Geography
The Greenhorn Mountains are found in eastern Kern County and Tulare County. They are east of the San Joaquin Valley. You can find them northeast of the city of Bakersfield. These mountains also form the western side of the Kern River Valley.
Tallest Point
The highest point in the Greenhorn Mountains is Sunday Peak. This peak reaches an elevation of 8,295 feet (2,528 m). It is located just south of a place called Portuguese Pass.
The Kern Canyon
The lower Kern Canyon is a very dramatic and deep canyon. A canyon is a deep valley with steep sides. This one was carved out by the Kern River. The river flows through the Greenhorn Mountains all the way to the San Joaquin Valley. State Route 178 is a road that follows this canyon. It goes up to the Kern River Valley.
Gold Rush History
In 1854, there was a big "Gold Strike" in California. This was when people discovered gold and rushed to find more. Miners crossing the Greenhorn Mountains during this time founded a town. They named this town Keyesville.
Amazing Plants and Animals
The Greenhorn Mountains are home to many different kinds of plants and animals. These are called native California flora (plants) and fauna (animals). It's a great place to see nature!
Unique Wildflowers
One beautiful wildflower found here is the Yellow mariposa lily (Calochortus luteus). This flower is at the very southern edge of where it naturally grows. Another special plant is the Marsh checkerbloom (Sidalcea ranunculacea). This plant is endemic to the Greenhorn Mountains. This means it grows naturally only in this area and the nearby Sierra Nevada foothills. You won't find it anywhere else in the world!
Special Salamander
The Greenhorn Mountains are also home to a unique animal. It's called the Greenhorn Mountains slender salamander (Batrachoseps altasierrae). Just like the Marsh checkerbloom, this salamander is endemic to the Greenhorn Mountains. This means it lives only in these mountains. It's a truly special creature found nowhere else!
