Mount Morgan (Montana) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Morgan |
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 8,781 ft (2,676 m) |
Prominence | 941 ft (287 m) |
Geography | |
Location | Flathead County, Montana, Glacier County, Montana, U.S. |
Parent range | Lewis Range |
Topo map | USGS Cut Bank Pass, MT |
Mount Morgan is a tall mountain in Montana, a state in the United States. It stands at 8,781 feet (2,676 m) high. This impressive peak is found within the beautiful Glacier National Park. It is also part of the Lewis Range, a large mountain chain.
Mount Morgan is special because it sits right on the Continental Divide. This is like a giant line that separates which way water flows across North America. Just to the east of Mount Morgan, you can find Oldman Lake, a lovely body of water.
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Discover Mount Morgan
Mount Morgan is a significant peak in the northern Rocky Mountains. It is located in the amazing Glacier National Park. This park is famous for its stunning mountains, clear lakes, and ancient glaciers. The mountain's height makes it one of the notable features in the area.
The mountain is shared between two counties in Montana. These are Flathead County, Montana and Glacier County, Montana. Its location offers incredible views of the surrounding wilderness. It is a true gem of the American landscape.
Part of the Lewis Range
Mount Morgan is a member of the Lewis Range. This is a major subrange of the Rocky Mountains. The Lewis Range stretches across parts of Montana and Canada. It is known for its rugged peaks and deep valleys.
This mountain range was formed millions of years ago. Powerful forces pushed up the Earth's crust. This created the tall, jagged peaks we see today. The Lewis Range is home to many other famous mountains. It is a key part of the park's natural beauty.
The Continental Divide
One of the most interesting facts about Mount Morgan is its location. It sits directly on the Continental Divide. This is a geographical line that runs through North and South America. It separates the watersheds that drain into different oceans.
Water that falls on the west side of the Divide flows towards the Pacific Ocean. Water that falls on the east side flows towards the Atlantic Ocean or the Arctic Ocean. Imagine a raindrop falling on Mount Morgan. Its path could be decided by which side of the mountain it lands on! This makes the mountain a very important geographical landmark.
How the Divide Works
The Continental Divide is not always a clear ridge. Sometimes it follows the highest points of mountain ranges. Other times, it can cross flatter land. However, in places like Mount Morgan, it often follows the mountain's crest.
This natural boundary affects many things. It influences weather patterns and ecosystems. It also helps define the flow of rivers and streams. Understanding the Continental Divide helps us learn about the geography of North America.
Nature Around the Mountain
The area around Mount Morgan is full of natural wonders. Just east of the peak is Oldman Lake. This lake is a beautiful, clear body of water. It reflects the surrounding mountains and sky.
The lake and the mountain are part of a rich ecosystem. This means many plants and animals live here. The park is home to various wildlife. You might find animals like mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears.
Plants and Wildlife
The slopes of Mount Morgan are covered with different types of plants. You can find dense forests of pine and fir trees. Higher up, the trees become sparser. They give way to alpine meadows. These meadows are filled with colorful wildflowers in the summer.
The diverse plant life supports many animal species. Birds, small mammals, and larger animals all thrive here. Glacier National Park is dedicated to protecting these natural habitats. This ensures that places like Mount Morgan remain wild and beautiful for future generations.