McIntyre Bluff facts for kids
Quick facts for kids McIntyre Bluff |
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![]() View of McIntyre Bluff from Highway 97
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 673 m (2,208 ft) |
Prominence | 260 m (850 ft) |
Geography | |
Location | Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada |
Topo map | NTS 82E/5 |
McIntyre Bluff is a huge rock formation found in British Columbia, Canada. It's located in the Okanagan region, between the towns of Okanagan Falls and Oliver. This impressive bluff is made of a type of rock called gneiss and stands out clearly in the valley. It's one of the most famous natural sights in the Okanagan area.
History of McIntyre Bluff
Local First Nations people have shared stories about McIntyre Bluff for hundreds of years. One story tells of a battle that happened on top of the bluff long ago. An enemy group from the south (what is now Washington state) was led to the top of the cliffs. They were then pushed over the edge during the fight.
McIntyre Bluff is named after a man named Peter McIntyre. He was part of a group called the Overlanders in 1862. He also worked as a guard for the Pony Express in the American West. In 1886, Peter McIntyre was given land right next to this large rock formation.
Protecting McIntyre Bluff's Nature
Most of McIntyre Bluff is now part of the White Lake Grasslands Protected Area. This special area helps to protect the unique Okanagan dry forests ecosystem that grows on top of the bluff. Protecting this land helps keep the plants and animals safe for the future.