Matterhorn Peak (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Matterhorn Peak |
|
|---|---|
Matterhorn Peak viewed from the south.
|
|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 13,596 ft (4,144 m) |
| Prominence | 570 ft (174 m) |
| Isolation | 0.86 mi (1.38 km) |
| Parent peak | Wetterhorn Peak |
| Geography | |
 Matterhorn Peak
Location in Colorado
|
|
| Location | Hinsdale County, Colorado, U.S. |
| Parent range | San Juan Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Matterhorn Peak, Colorado |
Matterhorn Peak is a very tall mountain in the San Juan Mountains range. These mountains are part of the larger Rocky Mountains in North America. This peak is special because it stands at 13,596-foot (4,144 m) high. It is located in a beautiful natural area called the Uncompahgre Wilderness, which is part of the Uncompahgre National Forest. You can find it about 10.3 miles (16.6 km) west of the Town of Lake City in Hinsdale County, Colorado, United States.
Discovering Matterhorn Peak
Matterhorn Peak is a striking part of the Colorado landscape. It's a popular spot for people who love to hike and explore the outdoors. The mountain's unique shape makes it stand out among the other peaks in the area.
What is a "Thirteener"?
Matterhorn Peak is known as a "thirteener." This is a special name given to mountains in Colorado that are over 13,000 feet (about 3,962 meters) tall. Colorado has many such peaks, and they are often challenging but rewarding to climb.
Why is it Called Matterhorn Peak?
Matterhorn Peak and its close neighbor, Wetterhorn Peak, got their names from two very famous mountains in the Swiss Alps. These European mountains are the Matterhorn and the Wetterhorn. The peaks in Colorado were named this way because they look a bit like their namesakes. Both Colorado peaks have sharp, pointed rock tops, which are quite different from the wider, more rounded shape of the nearby Uncompahgre Peak.
