kids encyclopedia robot

Grizzly Peak (Mariposa County, California) facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Grizzly Peak
Highest point
Elevation 6,222 ft (1,896 m)  NGVD 29
Prominence 182 ft (55 m)
Geography
Location Yosemite National Park
Mariposa County, California, U.S.
Parent range Sierra Nevada
Topo map USGS Half Dome
Climbing
First ascent 1885 by Charles A. Bailey
Easiest route Exposed scramble, class 3
Map showing Grizzly Peak
Cercle rouge 100%.svg
Map showing Grizzly Peak

Grizzly Peak is a cool mountain peak located in the famous Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, California. It's like a big, rocky shoulder on the side of the valley, sitting right below the even more famous Half Dome. You can spot Grizzly Peak from many places, especially if you're hiking to Vernal Fall or Nevada Fall, or looking from Glacier Point.

Discovering Grizzly Peak

Grizzly Peak is a special part of the amazing Yosemite National Park. It's found on the southwest side of the Yosemite Valley. Even though it's not as famous as Half Dome, it's still a really important landmark.

Where to See It

You can easily see Grizzly Peak from different spots in Yosemite.

  • If you are hiking the popular trails to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, look around! You'll get great views of the peak.
  • It's also visible from the northeastern part of Glacier Point. This is a famous viewpoint in Yosemite.
  • Many other places in the Yosemite Valley offer glimpses of this impressive peak.

How Tall Is It?

Grizzly Peak stands tall at about 6,222 feet (that's about 1,896 meters) above sea level. While it's not the tallest mountain in Yosemite, it still offers amazing views of the valley. Its height makes it a noticeable feature in the landscape.

Climbing Grizzly Peak

Unlike some other peaks in Yosemite, Grizzly Peak doesn't have a regular hiking trail to its very top. This means you can't just walk up it.

A Challenge for Climbers

Because there are no trails, Grizzly Peak is a favorite spot for rock climbers. These adventurous people use special gear and skills to climb up its steep rock faces. It's a challenging climb, but very rewarding for those who make it to the top. The easiest way to climb it is called an "exposed scramble." This means you have to use your hands and feet to climb over rocks, and there might be steep drops nearby.

First to the Top

The very first person known to reach the top of Grizzly Peak was Charles A. Bailey. He made his successful climb way back in 1885. Imagine climbing it without all the modern gear climbers have today!

Grizzly Peak in Yosemite

Grizzly Peak is a key part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. This range stretches across much of California. Yosemite National Park is famous for its giant granite cliffs, waterfalls, and ancient trees. Grizzly Peak fits right into this amazing natural setting.

Part of a Bigger Picture

Grizzly Peak is located in Mariposa County, which is in California. It's just one of many incredible natural features you can find in this area. Its rugged beauty adds to the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley.

kids search engine
Grizzly Peak (Mariposa County, California) Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.