Mount Ida (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Ida |
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Mount Ida and Azure Lake
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 12,874 ft (3,924 m) |
| Prominence | 520 ft (158 m) |
| Isolation | 1.16 mi (1.87 km) |
| Geography | |
 Mount Ida
Location in Colorado
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| Location | Grand and Larimer counties, Colorado, U.S. |
| Parent range | Front Range |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Grand Lake, Colorado |
Mount Ida is a tall and amazing mountain peak located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains in North America. This impressive mountain stands at 12,874-foot (3,924 m) (about 3,924 meters) above sea level. It is found inside the beautiful Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, United States. Mount Ida sits right on the Continental Divide, which is like a giant natural line that separates where water flows in North America.
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Where is Mount Ida Located?
Mount Ida is in a special part of Colorado. It is about 13.4 miles (21.6 km) west of the Town of Estes Park. The mountain crosses the border between two counties: Grand County and Larimer County. Being part of the Rocky Mountain National Park, it is protected and cherished for its natural beauty.
What is the Continental Divide?
The Continental Divide of the Americas is a very important natural feature. It is a ridge of high ground that runs through North and South America. On one side, all the rain and snowmelt flow towards the Atlantic Ocean. On the other side, the water flows towards the Pacific Ocean. Mount Ida sits right on this amazing natural boundary!
Exploring Mount Ida and Its Surroundings
Mount Ida is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The views from its summit are truly breathtaking. You can see many other mountain peaks, deep valleys, and sparkling alpine lakes. The air is fresh and clean, and the quietness is wonderful.
Hiking to the Summit
Reaching the top of Mount Ida is a challenging but rewarding hike. The trail takes you through different types of landscapes. You will walk through forests, open meadows, and rocky areas above the tree line. Hikers need to be prepared for changing weather conditions, even in summer.
Wildlife and Nature
The area around Mount Ida is home to many different animals. You might see elk, deer, or even bighorn sheep grazing in the meadows. Smaller animals like marmots and pikas are also common. The park works hard to protect these animals and their homes.
The plants around Mount Ida also change with the elevation. At lower levels, you find tall pine and fir trees. As you go higher, the trees become shorter and eventually disappear above the tree line. Here, you will find hardy alpine plants that can survive the cold and windy conditions.
How Mount Ida Got Its Name
The name "Mount Ida" likely comes from another famous mountain. There is a very old and important mountain called Mount Ida on the island of Crete in Greece. This suggests that the mountain in Colorado was named after that ancient peak.
