Mount Hopkins (California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Hopkins |
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Mount Hopkins over Pioneer Basin, sunset
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 12,304 ft (3,750 m) NGVD 29 |
| Prominence | 424 ft (129 m) |
| Geography | |
 Mount Hopkins
Location in California
Mount Hopkins
Location in the United States
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| Parent range | Sierra Nevada |
| Topo map | USGS Mount Abbot |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | 1934 by David Brower, Norman Clyde, and Hervey Voge |
| Easiest route | Hike from the east |
Mount Hopkins is a tall mountain located in the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains in California, United States. It stands proudly in the John Muir Wilderness, a special protected area. This mountain is close to Kings Canyon National Park, a famous place known for its huge trees and deep canyons. Mount Hopkins is one of four peaks that surround a lovely area called Pioneer Basin.
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Exploring Mount Hopkins
Mount Hopkins reaches an elevation of 12,304 feet (about 3,750 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the many high peaks in the Sierra Nevada range. The mountain is found in Fresno County, in the central part of California.
Where is Mount Hopkins Located?
Mount Hopkins is situated in the John Muir Wilderness. This wilderness area is named after John Muir, a famous naturalist who helped protect many natural places. Wilderness areas are kept wild and natural, with very few human changes. They are great for hiking and enjoying nature.
The mountain is also just north of Kings Canyon National Park. This national park is known for its giant sequoia trees and deep canyons carved by glaciers. Being near a national park means the area around Mount Hopkins is home to amazing wildlife and stunning views.
Peaks Around Pioneer Basin
Mount Hopkins is part of a group of mountains that form a natural bowl around Pioneer Basin. This basin is a scenic spot often visited by hikers. Other peaks nearby include Mount Crocker, which is about 1.4 miles (2.2 km) away. Mount Huntington is also close, about 2 miles (3.2 km) to the west-southwest. Mount Stanford is another peak about 2 miles (3.2 km) to the southwest. These mountains create a dramatic landscape for the basin.
Who Was Mount Hopkins Named After?
Mount Hopkins was named in honor of Mark Hopkins. He was a very important person in American history. Mark Hopkins was one of the "Big Four" businessmen who helped build the Central Pacific Railroad. This railroad was a huge project that connected the eastern and western parts of the United States. It greatly changed how people and goods traveled across the country.
The Central Pacific Railroad's Impact
Building the Central Pacific Railroad was a massive undertaking in the 1860s. It involved laying tracks through difficult terrain, including mountains and deserts. Mark Hopkins, along with Leland Stanford, Collis P. Huntington, and Charles Crocker, played key roles in making this dream a reality. Their work helped to open up the American West for settlement and trade.
First Climbers of Mount Hopkins
The first recorded climb to the summit of Mount Hopkins happened in 1934. This historic ascent was made by three skilled climbers: David Brower, Norman Clyde, and Hervey Voge. David Brower later became a famous environmentalist, working to protect wild places. Norman Clyde was known for his many first ascents in the Sierra Nevada.
Easiest Way to Reach the Summit
For those who wish to climb Mount Hopkins today, the easiest way is usually by hiking from the east side of the mountain. While climbing a mountain like Mount Hopkins requires preparation and experience, it offers incredible views and a sense of accomplishment. Hikers often explore the surrounding wilderness and national park areas as part of their adventure.
