Mount Bailey (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Bailey |
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 Mount Bailey
Location in Colorado
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 9,089 ft (2,770 m) |
| Prominence | 549 ft (167 m) |
| Isolation | 3.36 mi (5.41 km) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Park County, Colorado, U.S. |
| Parent range | Front Range |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Bailey, Colorado |
Mount Bailey is a mountain peak located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in North America. This peak stands at 9,089-foot (2,770 m) (about 2,770 meters) above sea level. It is found in Park County, Colorado, United States.
Mount Bailey is quite close to the small community of Bailey. It is only about 1.0 mile (1.6 km) (1 mile) northeast of the town. This makes it a noticeable landmark for people living in or visiting Bailey.
Contents
What is the Front Range?
Mount Bailey is part of the Front Range. The Front Range is a major mountain range in the southern Rocky Mountains of North America. It stretches across parts of Colorado and Wyoming.
Where does the Front Range begin and end?
The Front Range starts near the city of Cheyenne, Wyoming, in the north. It then extends south through Colorado, ending near the city of Pueblo. This long stretch of mountains forms a natural border along the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains.
Why is the Front Range important?
The Front Range is very important for several reasons. It is home to many large cities in Colorado, like Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs. The mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for these cities.
- Water Source: The snow and ice on these mountains melt and provide fresh water for millions of people. This water fills rivers and reservoirs.
- Recreation: The Front Range offers many outdoor activities. People enjoy hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and camping here.
- Wildlife: Many different animals live in the Front Range. You can find deer, elk, bears, and various bird species.
Exploring Park County, Colorado
Mount Bailey is located in Park County. This county is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and rich history.
What makes Park County special?
Park County is mostly made up of high mountain valleys and forests. It is often called the "South Park" area, which is a large, high-altitude basin.
- History: The county has a history tied to mining and ranching. Many old towns and historical sites can be found here.
- Nature: It's a great place for nature lovers. There are many state parks and national forests. These areas offer chances to see wildlife and enjoy the outdoors.
- Rivers: Important rivers like the South Platte River begin in Park County. These rivers are vital for water supply and recreation like fishing.
How are mountains formed?
Mountains like Mount Bailey are formed over millions of years. This happens through powerful forces deep within the Earth.
What are tectonic plates?
The Earth's outer layer is broken into huge pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are always moving, very slowly. When two plates push against each other, they can cause the land to fold, crack, and rise up.
How do mountains rise?
When plates collide, the immense pressure can push the Earth's crust upwards. This process is called orogeny, or mountain building. It's like pushing a rug from opposite ends; it wrinkles and rises in the middle. Over time, these wrinkles become mountains.
- Erosion: Once mountains are formed, wind, water, and ice start to wear them down. This process is called erosion. It shapes the peaks and valleys we see today.
- Volcanoes: Some mountains are also formed by volcanoes. When lava and ash erupt and build up over time, they can create cone-shaped mountains. However, Mount Bailey is not a volcano.
