Highland facts for kids

The term highland or upland describes any area of land that is much higher than the land around it. Think of them as elevated regions, like hills or mountains.

Generally, an upland refers to a range of hills. These hills are usually not super tall, often reaching heights of up to 500 to 600 meters (about 1,600 to 2,000 feet).

A highland usually means a range of low mountains. These areas are typically higher and more rugged than uplands. Both terms describe places with noticeable changes in elevation, creating unique landscapes.

What Are Highlands and Uplands?

Highlands and uplands are important geographical features. They are areas where the land rises significantly above sea level or the surrounding flatter areas. These regions can be found all over the world.

How Are They Formed?

Highlands and uplands are formed by various geological processes. These can include:

• Tectonic plate movements: When Earth's large plates crash into each other, they can push land upwards, forming mountains and high plateaus.
• Erosion: Over millions of years, wind, water, and ice can wear away softer rock, leaving harder, more resistant rock standing tall as hills or mountains.
• Volcanic activity: Volcanoes can build up large landforms, creating elevated regions.

Characteristics of These Regions

Highlands and uplands often have distinct features:

• Steep slopes: The land can rise sharply, making them challenging to travel across.
• Cooler climates: Temperatures tend to be lower at higher elevations.
• Unique ecosystems: The specific climate and terrain often support different types of plants and animals compared to lowlands.
• Rivers and streams: Many rivers originate in highland areas, flowing down to lower elevations.

Where Can We Find Them?

Highlands and uplands are found on every continent. They are home to diverse cultures and wildlife.

Famous Highland Areas

Some well-known highland regions around the world include:

• The Scottish Highlands: Located in Scotland, UK, these are famous for their beautiful lochs (lakes), glens (valleys), and rugged mountains.
• The Tibetan Plateau: Often called the "Roof of the World," this vast highland region in Asia is the highest and largest plateau on Earth.
• The Andes Mountains: This long mountain range in South America includes many high-altitude areas.
• The Appalachian Mountains: Found in eastern North America, these are older, more rounded mountains that form an extensive upland region.

These regions play a vital role in the world's geography, climate, and biodiversity. They are often areas of great natural beauty and provide important resources.

Images for kids

• 

  Glen Affric in the Scottish Highlands.

See also

In Spanish: Altiplano para niños