Lava Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lava Mountains |
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 1,392 m (4,567 ft) |
Geography | |
Country | United States |
State | California |
District | San Bernardino County |
Range coordinates | 35°26′13.862″N 117°31′11.206″W / 35.43718389°N 117.51977944°W |
Topo map | USGS Klinker Mountain |
The Lava Mountains are a cool mountain range found in the Mojave Desert, a huge desert area in California. They are located in San Bernardino County, which is in the southern part of the state. These mountains mark one of the eastern edges of the Fremont Valley.
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Exploring the Lava Mountains
The Lava Mountains might not be as famous as some other mountain ranges, but they are an interesting part of California's landscape. They stand tall in the vast and dry Mojave Desert. This area is known for its unique plants and animals that have adapted to living in a very dry environment.
Where Are They Located?
The Lava Mountains are nestled within San Bernardino County. This county is one of the largest in the United States! The mountains are part of the eastern border of the Fremont Valley. This valley is a long, flat area that stretches out in the desert.
The mountains are found in a remote part of the desert. This means they are far away from big cities and towns. Their exact location can be pinpointed using special coordinates: 35°26′13.862″N, 117°31′11.206″W.
How Tall Are They?
The highest point in the Lava Mountains reaches an elevation of about 1,392 meters (that's about 4,567 feet) above sea level. While this isn't as high as some of the giant mountains like those in the Sierra Nevada, it's still quite tall for a desert range. From their peaks, you can see wide views of the surrounding desert.
What Are They Made Of?
The name "Lava Mountains" gives us a big clue about their geology. These mountains were likely formed by ancient volcanic activity. Over millions of years, molten rock, or lava, erupted from the Earth's surface. This lava cooled and hardened, building up the mountains we see today. This process created unique rock formations that are different from mountains formed by other geological forces.
The dry desert climate has also shaped these mountains. Wind and occasional rain have slowly eroded the rocks, creating interesting shapes and canyons.