Griffin Island facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Griffin Island |
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 Griffin Island
Location in Massachusetts
Griffin Island
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 75 ft (23 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Cape Cod, Massachusetts |
| Topo map | USGS Wellfleet |
Griffin Island is a unique natural spot located in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. It's often called a "mountain," but with an elevation of about 75 feet (around 23 meters), it's more like a tall hill or a large dune. This interesting landform is found on Cape Cod, a famous arm-shaped peninsula in Massachusetts.
Where is Griffin Island?
Griffin Island is situated in the Town of Wellfleet. It's about 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) west-northwest of the main village of Wellfleet. Wellfleet is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and natural areas.
Being on Cape Cod, Griffin Island is part of a landscape shaped by glaciers long ago. This area is famous for its sandy shores, salt marshes, and unique plant and animal life.
What Makes Griffin Island Special?
Even though it's not a towering peak, Griffin Island offers a glimpse into the natural beauty of Cape Cod. Its relatively small height means it's easily accessible for exploration. From its top, you might get nice views of the surrounding area, including the nearby coastline and the town of Wellfleet.
Just south of Griffin Island, you'll find another interesting landform called Great Beach Hill. These features together create a varied landscape that's great for outdoor activities like hiking and nature watching.
Exploring the Area
The region around Griffin Island is rich in natural wonders. Wellfleet is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore, which protects many miles of beaches, dunes, and forests. Visitors can enjoy:
- Walking trails
- Bird watching
- Exploring the unique coastal environment
Griffin Island, while small, is a part of this larger, beautiful natural system. It's a great example of the diverse terrain you can find on Cape Cod, even if it's not a typical towering mountain.
