Jura Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jura Mountains |
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Looking towards Lélex from near the Crêt de la Neige
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| Highest point | |
| Peak | Crêt de la Neige |
| Elevation | 1,720 m (5,640 ft) |
| Geography | |
Satellite image of the Jura Mountains (upper left half of the image)
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| Countries | France and Switzerland |
| States/Provinces | |
| Range coordinates | 46°40′N 6°15′E / 46.667°N 6.250°E |
The Jura Mountains are a mountain range in Europe. They are located north of the Western Alps. These mountains mostly follow the border between France and Switzerland.
The Jura Mountains help separate the Rhine and Rhône river basins. This means they form a drainage divide, guiding water into different major rivers. The name "Jura" comes from an old Celtic word, jor-, which means "forest".
The Jura Mountains are like a long, curved chain of hills. Their rocks are mostly made of limestone. You can find them in both Switzerland and France. The Chasseral is one of the highest points in the Swiss Jura. It stands 1,607 metres above sea level. The very highest part is the “Crêt de la Neige” in France, which is 1,718 metres high.
Scientists have found many fossils and dinosaur tracks in the Jura Mountains. The rocks here were formed a very long time ago. This was between 144 million and 208 million years ago.
Contents
What's in a Name?
The Jura mountain range has given its name to several important things. These include the French area called Jura. It also named the Swiss Canton of Jura.
Perhaps most famously, the mountains gave their name to the Jurassic period. This was a time in Earth's history when dinosaurs roamed. Even a mountain range on the Moon is called the Montes Jura!
Fun Things to Do in the Jura Mountains
The Jura Mountains are a great place for many outdoor activities. You can go hiking and cycling on many trails. In winter, people enjoy both downhill skiing and cross-country skiing.
Hiking and Trails
One popular hiking route is the Jura ridgeway. This trail is about 310 km long. It offers amazing views and a chance to explore the mountains.
Natural Wonders
The Jura Mountains have many cool natural sights to see.
- The Creux du Van is a huge natural rock amphitheater.
- Peaks like the Chasseral offer fantastic lookout points.
- You can explore caves such as the Grottes de l'Orbe.
- There are also beautiful gorges like Taubenloch.
Historic Sites
The towns of Le Locle and La Chaux-de-Fonds are special. They are recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This is because of their history with horology, which is the art of making clocks and watches.
The 11th-century Fort de Joux is another interesting place. It's an old fort built on a natural rock. Famous military engineers, like Vauban, made it stronger over many years. It's located near Pontarlier.
The "Highway of the Titans"
Part of the A40 autoroute (a major highway) goes through the southern Jura. This section is known as the "Highway of the Titans". It connects Bourg-en-Bresse and Bellegarde-sur-Valserine.
Images for kids
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Topographical map of Switzerland showing the Jura range (in the northwest and west) and the Alps (in the south and east).
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The impressive Creux du Van natural amphitheater.
See also
In Spanish: Macizo del Jura para niños
