King Peak (Nevada) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids King Peak |
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King Peak, looking south.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 11,036 ft (3,364 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 1,311 ft (400 m) |
| Geography | |
 King Peak
Location in Nevada
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| Parent range | Ruby Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Franklin Lake NW |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | From the Ruby Crest Trail: steep hike |
King Peak is a tall mountain located in the Ruby Mountains in Nevada, a state in the western United States. It's one of the highest points in the southern part of the Ruby Mountains. This peak is found in Elko County, which is in the northeastern part of Nevada.
The mountain stands at about 11,036 feet (3,364 meters) high. It is a significant landmark in the area. King Peak is part of the Humboldt National Forest and the Ruby Mountains Wilderness. These areas are protected for their natural beauty and wildlife.
Discovering King Peak
King Peak is the southernmost mountain in the Ruby Mountains that rises above 11,000 feet. To the west of the peak, you can find Rattlesnake Canyon. To the east, there is Overland Creek Canyon. This canyon's waters flow into the Ruby Valley.
Location and Surroundings
The peak is located about 29 miles (47 kilometers) southeast of the community of Elko. The area around King Peak is known for its rugged beauty. It offers amazing views of the surrounding landscape.
The Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail passes very close to the east side of King Peak. This trail is popular for hiking and exploring. It stretches north from Overland Lake, offering a challenging but rewarding journey for adventurers. Hikers on the trail can enjoy stunning views of the peak.
Who Was Clarence King?
King Peak is named after Clarence King. He was a famous American geologist and explorer. King explored this region of Nevada in 1869. His work was part of a big project called the Geological Exploration of the Fortieth Parallel. This project aimed to map and study the geology of a wide area across the western United States.
Clarence King later became the very first chief of the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The USGS is a science agency of the U.S. government. It studies the Earth, its natural hazards, and its resources. Naming the peak after him honors his important contributions to understanding the geology of the American West.
