In-Ko-Pah Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids In-Ko-Pah Mountains |
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 Location in California
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| Highest point | |
| Peak | Mt. Tule |
| Elevation | 1,416 m (4,646 ft) |
| Geography | |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| District | San Diego County |
| Range coordinates | 32°48′0.197″N 116°17′3.061″W / 32.80005472°N 116.28418361°W |
| Topo map | USGS Sombrero Peak |
The In-Ko-Pah Mountains are a cool mountain range in southern California. They are part of the Peninsular Ranges, a group of mountains stretching from California down into Mexico. You can find them close to the U.S. border with Mexico.
These mountains run from north to south. They are just north of Interstate 8, a major highway. They are also east of the Manzanita Indian Reservation. The In-Ko-Pah Mountains are about 12 miles (19 kilometers) long.
The two tallest peaks in this range are Mt. Tule and Sombrero Peak. Mt. Tule stands tall at 4,647 feet (1,416 meters) above sea level. Sombrero Peak is a bit shorter at 4,229 feet (1,289 meters).
What Are the In-Ko-Pah Mountains Made Of?
The In-Ko-Pah Mountains are mostly made of a type of rock called granitic intrusive bedrock. This rock has been broken up by natural forces over time. This creates amazing piles of huge boulders.
The original rock, called granodiorite, is naturally very light in color. But over many centuries, it gets a reddish-orange coating. This coating is called "desert varnish." It makes the rocks look even more dramatic!
Exploring the In-Ko-Pah Mountains
You can see these cool rock formations when you drive on Interstate 8. If you are heading west, you will pass through Devil's Canyon. If you are heading east, you will go through In-Ko-Pah Gorge.
You might even spot parts of old Highway 80. This was one of the first highways that crossed North America! You can see its remains on both sides of the modern Interstate 8.
For a closer look at the boulders, visit the Desert View Tower. This is a historic building right by the road. It has a special "boulder park." Here, you can see huge sculptures carved into the local rocks. These sculptures were made a long time ago during the Great Depression.
If you love camping, you can camp among these unique rocks. The McCain Valley Recreational Area offers camping spots. It's located off Interstate 8, near the town of Boulevard.
