Ice Mountain (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ice Mountain |
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 Ice Mountain
Location in Colorado
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 13,958 ft (4,254 m) |
| Prominence | 1,011 ft (308 m) |
| Isolation | 2.11 mi (3.40 km) |
| Parent peak | Huron Peak |
| Geography | |
| Location | Chaffee and Gunnison counties, Colorado, United States |
| Parent range | Sawatch Range, Collegiate Peaks |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Winfield, Colorado |
Ice Mountain is a very tall mountain peak found in the Collegiate Peaks area. This area is part of the larger Sawatch Range in the Rocky Mountains of North America.
This impressive peak is 13,958-foot (4,254 m) high. Mountains over 14,000 feet are called "fourteeners," and those just under, like Ice Mountain, are sometimes called "thirteeners." It is located in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, a special protected area.
Ice Mountain is about 17.1 miles (27.5 km) west-northwest of the Town of Buena Vista, Colorado, United States. It sits right on the Continental Divide. This imaginary line runs through the Americas, separating which way water flows. On one side, water flows to the Atlantic Ocean; on the other, it flows to the Pacific Ocean.
The mountain also marks the border between San Isabel National Forest and Chaffee County on one side, and White River National Forest and Pitkin County on the other.
About Ice Mountain
Ice Mountain is a significant part of the Sawatch Range. This range is known for its many high peaks. The mountains here were formed over millions of years by powerful geological forces.
The area around Ice Mountain is rugged and beautiful. It is a popular spot for hiking and climbing for experienced adventurers. Because it's part of a wilderness area, it is kept wild and natural. This helps protect the plants and animals that live there.
The Collegiate Peaks
Ice Mountain is one of the "Collegiate Peaks." This group of mountains is named after famous universities. For example, nearby peaks include Mount Harvard, Mount Yale, and Mount Princeton. These peaks are very popular with hikers. They offer amazing views of the Colorado landscape.
Continental Divide
The Continental Divide is like a giant roofline for a continent. Rain and snow that fall on one side of Ice Mountain will eventually flow to the Pacific Ocean. Water on the other side will flow towards the Atlantic Ocean. This makes the mountain a key part of North America's water system.
Wildlife and Nature
The wilderness around Ice Mountain is home to many types of wildlife. You might find elk, deer, and various bird species. The high-altitude environment means that plants and animals here are specially adapted to cold weather and thin air. Protecting this area helps these creatures thrive.
