Grinnell Point facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grinnell Point |
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Grinnell Point rises above Swiftcurrent Lake and the Many Glacier Hotel
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 7,604 ft (2,318 m) |
| Prominence | 160 ft (49 m) |
| Geography | |
 Grinnell Point
Location in Montana
Grinnell Point
Location in the United States
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| Location | Glacier County, Montana, U.S. |
| Parent range | Lewis Range |
| Topo map | USGS Many Glacier MT |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | Prehistoric |
| Easiest route | Scramble class 2-3 |
Grinnell Point is a mountain peak located in the beautiful Glacier National Park in Montana, U.S.. It stands tall at about 7,604 feet (2,318 meters) above sea level. This mountain is a very popular sight, especially because it's easy to spot from the Many Glacier Hotel and the nearby Swiftcurrent Lake.
Grinnell Point is part of the Lewis Range, a large mountain chain. It's often photographed and is a famous landmark in the park. Many people sometimes confuse it with a larger mountain called Mount Grinnell. Mount Grinnell is actually a bit further away and can't be seen from the main roads in the Many Glacier area. Grinnell Point is like a smaller, more visible neighbor to Mount Grinnell.
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What is Grinnell Point?
Grinnell Point is a specific peak within the larger Lewis Range. It's known for its striking appearance. The mountain rises sharply above Swiftcurrent Lake, creating a stunning view. This makes it a favorite spot for photographers and visitors to the park.
It's called a "subpeak" of Mount Grinnell. This means it's a smaller peak that is connected to a larger main mountain. Even though it's a subpeak, Grinnell Point has its own unique shape and stands out on its own.
Where is Grinnell Point Located?
Grinnell Point is found in the northwestern part of Montana. It's deep inside Glacier National Park, which is famous for its rugged mountains and beautiful lakes. The mountain is specifically in Glacier County, Montana.
The park itself is located right on the border with Canada. It's a huge area of wilderness. Grinnell Point is in the "Many Glacier" region of the park. This area is known for its many glaciers, lakes, and hiking trails.
Why is Grinnell Point Special?
One of the main reasons Grinnell Point is special is its visibility. It's one of the first mountains you see when you arrive in the Many Glacier area. Its reflection in Swiftcurrent Lake is a classic postcard image of Glacier National Park.
Another interesting fact is its name. Grinnell Point was named after George Bird Grinnell. He was an important explorer, historian, and conservationist. He worked hard to protect the natural beauty of places like Glacier National Park. Naming a mountain after him honors his efforts to preserve these wild lands for future generations.
Exploring the Area Around Grinnell Point
The area around Grinnell Point is full of natural wonders. Swiftcurrent Lake, right at the base of the mountain, is a popular spot for boating and photography. The historic Many Glacier Hotel sits on the shore of the lake, offering amazing views of Grinnell Point.
Many hiking trails start from this area. These trails lead to other lakes, waterfalls, and even glaciers. Visitors can often spot wildlife like bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and even grizzly bears (from a safe distance, of course!). The park is a protected habitat for many different animals.
Climbing Grinnell Point
While Grinnell Point looks impressive, climbing it is considered a "scramble." This means it's not a technical climb that requires ropes and special gear. Instead, it involves using your hands and feet to move over steep, rocky terrain. It's a challenging hike, but it offers incredible views from the top for experienced hikers.
The easiest way to climb Grinnell Point is rated as a "YDS 2-3." This is a climbing difficulty scale. A "scramble" means you might need to use your hands for balance or to pull yourself up short sections. It's important for anyone attempting to climb to be prepared and have experience with this type of terrain.
