Mohawk Mountains facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mohawk Mountains |
|
---|---|
![]() Low clouds on the Mohawk Mountains
|
|
Highest point | |
Peak | Mohawk Peak |
Elevation | 2,775 ft (846 m) |
Dimensions | |
Length | 35 mi (56 km) NW–SE |
Width | 5 mi (8.0 km) |
Geography | |
Country | United States |
State | Arizona |
Region | Central & Northwestern Sonoran Desert |
District | Yuma County |
Range coordinates | 32°35′23″N 113°38′51″W / 32.58972°N 113.64750°W |
Borders on | Gila River (N) San Cristobal Valley (NE) Mohawk Valley (SW) Bryan Mountains (SE) |
The Mohawk Mountains are a mountain range located in the southwest part of Arizona. They are found in the northwest area of the Sonoran Desert. This mountain range is also known by other names: the Maricopa people call them Vii Kachkwiny, and the O'odham people call them Kusvo To:b.
Contents
Exploring the Mohawk Mountains
The Mohawk Mountains are a cool place to learn about geology and geography. They are part of a larger system of mountains in the desert.
Where are the Mohawk Mountains?
These mountains are located in southern Yuma County. They are next to the western part of the Gila River valley, which is to their north. The Mohawk Valley is right next to the mountains on their southwest side. To the northeast, you'll find the San Cristobal Valley.
What is Mohawk Peak?
The tallest point in the Mohawk Mountains is called Mohawk Peak. It stands at about 2,775 feet (or 846 meters) high. This peak is a key feature of the mountain range.
How were the Mohawk Mountains formed?
The Mohawk Mountains, along with the nearby Bryan Mountains, were formed by a process called block faulting. Imagine the Earth's crust as huge blocks. Sometimes, these blocks move up or down along cracks called faults. This movement creates mountains and valleys. The Mohawk Mountains are a great example of this type of formation, stretching from the northwest to the southeast.
Nearby Places and Roads
The town of Mohawk is located at the northern end of the mountain range. A major road, Interstate 8, runs through this area. It even crosses the mountains through a spot called Mohawk Pass. This pass makes it easier for people to travel through the rugged mountain terrain.