Mogollon Baldy facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mogollon Baldy |
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 Mogollon Baldy
Location in New Mexico
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 10,774 ft (3,284 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 1,130 ft (340 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Catron County, New Mexico, U.S. |
| Parent range | Mogollon Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Mogollon Baldy Peak |
Mogollon Baldy is one of the tallest mountains found in the Mogollon Mountains of New Mexico, in the United States. It stands very tall, reaching about 10,774 feet (3,284 m) into the sky. This impressive peak is located inside the huge Gila National Forest and the special Gila Wilderness area. The very top of the mountain marks the boundary between two important parts of the forest: the Wilderness Ranger District and the Glenwood Ranger District.
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What is Mogollon Baldy?
Mogollon Baldy is a significant mountain peak. It's part of the Mogollon Mountains, which are a major mountain range in southwestern New Mexico. The name "Baldy" often means that the top of the mountain has few or no trees, making it look "bald." This can be due to high winds, cold temperatures, or past events like fires.
Where is Mogollon Baldy Located?
This mountain is found in Catron County, which is in the western part of New Mexico. It's a key feature within the Gila National Forest, one of the largest national forests in the United States. A big part of the area around Mogollon Baldy is also designated as the Gila Wilderness.
The Gila Wilderness: A Special Place
The Gila Wilderness was the world's first officially designated wilderness area. This means it's a place where nature is protected, and human activity is kept to a minimum. There are no roads, and people can only explore it on foot or horseback. This helps to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the area, making it a truly wild and untouched place.
Impact of the Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire
In 2012, the area around Mogollon Baldy was greatly affected by a massive event called the Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire. This wildfire was the largest in New Mexico's history.
What Happened During the Fire?
The Whitewater-Baldy Complex Fire started from two separate fires that eventually joined together. It burned for many weeks, covering a huge amount of land, including parts of the Gila National Forest and the Gila Wilderness. Wildfires can be very destructive, burning trees and plants, and changing the landscape.
How Did the Fire Affect Mogollon Baldy?
The fire had a big impact on the forests and ecosystems around Mogollon Baldy. It changed the look of the mountain slopes and the types of plants that grow there. Even after a fire, nature slowly starts to recover. New plants begin to grow, and animals gradually return to the area. This process of recovery can take many years, but it shows how resilient nature can be.
