Horsefly Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Horsefly Peak |
|
|---|---|
 Horsefly Peak
Location in Colorado
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 10,353 ft (3,156 m) |
| Prominence | 1,437 ft (438 m) |
| Isolation | 13.04 mi (20.99 km) |
| Listing | Colorado range high points |
| Geography | |
| Location | Ouray County, Colorado, U.S. |
| Parent range | Highest summit of the Uncompahgre Plateau |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Horsefly Peak, Colorado |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | hike |
Horsefly Peak is a tall mountain located in the Rocky Mountains of North America. It is the highest point of the Uncompahgre Plateau. This peak stands at 10,353 feet (3,156 meters) above sea level. You can find it in Ouray County, Colorado, in the United States. It is about 10 miles (16.1 km) west of the town of Ridgway.
Contents
About Horsefly Peak
Horsefly Peak is a significant landmark in western Colorado. Its height makes it a prominent feature in the landscape. The peak is part of the larger Uncompahgre Plateau. A plateau is a large, flat area of land that is higher than the land around it.
Where is Horsefly Peak?
This mountain is found in Ouray County, Colorado. Ouray County is in the southwestern part of Colorado. The peak is located within the vast Uncompahgre National Forest. This forest covers a large area of mountains and plateaus.
What Makes it Special?
Horsefly Peak is special because it is the highest point on the Uncompahgre Plateau. This plateau is a unique geological feature. The area around the peak is known for its beautiful scenery. It offers great views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Many people enjoy hiking and exploring this region.
Exploring the Uncompahgre Plateau
The Uncompahgre Plateau is a large area of high land. It stretches for many miles in western Colorado. This plateau is home to diverse wildlife. You might see deer, elk, and various bird species here. The plant life also changes with the elevation.
Nature and Wildlife
The forests on the plateau are mostly made up of Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir trees. At higher elevations, you can find Englemann Spruce and Subalpine Fir. These trees provide homes for many animals. The plateau is also important for water. It helps feed rivers and streams in the area.
Activities in the Area
The region around Horsefly Peak is popular for outdoor activities. Hiking is a common way to explore the area. There are many trails for different skill levels. People also enjoy camping, wildlife viewing, and photography. In winter, some areas might be used for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
