Mount Ireland facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Ireland |
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 Mount Ireland
Location in Oregon
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 8,325 ft (2,537 m) NAVD 88 |
| Prominence | 1,041 ft (317 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Grant County, Oregon, U.S. |
| Parent range | Elkhorn Crest of the southern Blue Mountains |
| Topo map | USGS Mount Ireland |
Mount Ireland is a cool mountain located in Grant County, Oregon, in the U.S.. It is part of the Blue Mountains range. This mountain stands tall at about 8,321 feet (2,536 meters) high. It is known for its beautiful views and interesting history.
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Discover Mount Ireland
This mountain is found about 5 miles (8 km) east-northeast of a town called Granite, Oregon. Mount Ireland is the shortest and most western peak in the Elkhorn Range that is over 8,000 feet tall. It is also Oregon's 71st highest peak.
The Story Behind the Name
For a few years, this mountain peak was called Bald Mountain. But in 1917, its name was changed to Ireland Mountain. This was done to remember Henry Ireland. He had been the supervisor of the Whitman National Forest for 10 years. The mountain is located within this forest.
Henry Ireland passed away in 1916. Local people and the U.S. Forest Service worked together to honor him. That is how the mountain officially became known as Mount Ireland.
Exploring the Mountain: Hiking and Views
Mount Ireland is located inside the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. This means it is a great place for outdoor adventures. Hikers are welcome to explore the Mt. Ireland Lookout Trail #1604. This trail is open during the summer and fall seasons.
The Mt. Ireland Lookout Trail
The Mt. Ireland Lookout Trail is considered "more difficult." However, there are no special rules to hike it. The trail is 3.2 miles (5.1 km) long. It starts at an elevation of 6,000 feet (1,829 meters). The trail ends at the Mt. Ireland Fire Lookout.
From the top, you can see Baldy Lake on the north side of the mountain. Even though the mountain's name changed, this small lake kept its original name. The view from the summit is amazing. You can see a wide panorama of the North Fork John Day Wilderness.
