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Mount Tamalpais facts for kids

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Mount Tamalpais
Mount Tamalpais.jpg
Mt. Tamalpais as seen from Muir Beach Overlook
Highest point
Elevation 2,574 feet (784 metres)
Prominence 2,460 ft (750 m)
Geography
Location Marin County, California, USA
Parent range California Coast Ranges
Topo map USGS San Rafael
Geology
Mountain type Sedimentary
Climbing
First ascent 1830s by Jacob P. Leese
Easiest route Railroad Grade fire trail

Mount Tamalpais is a famous mountain in Marin County, California, USA. People often call it "Mount Tam" for short. It is the tallest mountain in the Marin Hills and is a well-known symbol of Marin County.

Most of Mount Tamalpais is protected land. This includes places like Mount Tamalpais State Park and the Mount Tamalpais Watershed. The mountain has two main peaks. The East Peak is about 2,572 feet (784 meters) high. The West Peak is the highest point, reaching 2,574 feet (784 meters) above sea level.

What is Mount Tamalpais?

Mount Tamalpais is part of the California Coast Ranges. These are mountain ranges that run along the coast of California. The mountain is made mostly of sedimentary rock. This type of rock forms from layers of sand, mud, and other materials over a long time.

Where is Mount Tamalpais Located?

Mount Tamalpais is found in Marin County, California. It is just north of the famous San Francisco Bay Area. Its location makes it a great spot for views of the bay and the Pacific Ocean.

How Tall is Mount Tamalpais?

The highest point of Mount Tamalpais is the West Peak. It stands at 2,574 feet (784 meters) above sea level. The East Peak is very close in height, at 2,572 feet (784 meters). These heights make it the tallest mountain in the Marin Hills.

Exploring Mount Tamalpais

Mount Tamalpais is a popular place for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking here. There are many trails that wind through the forests and open areas.

Hiking and Trails

One of the easiest ways to reach the top is by using the Railroad Grade fire trail. This trail is wide and not too steep. It's a good choice for families or those who want a more relaxed walk. Other trails offer more challenging hikes.

Protected Lands and Parks

A large part of Mount Tamalpais is protected. This means the land is kept safe for nature and people to enjoy. Key protected areas include:

  • Mount Tamalpais State Park: This park offers many trails and beautiful views.
  • Mount Tamalpais Watershed: This area helps supply water to local communities. It also protects important natural habitats.

Nature and Wildlife

Mount Tamalpais is home to many different plants and animals. The type of plants you see changes as you go up the mountain. You can find dense forests, open woodlands, and grassy areas.

Plants of Mount Tamalpais

The western side of the mountain has open areas with Douglas-fir trees and oak trees. There are also grasslands. As you move east, the forests become thicker with more Douglas-fir trees. You might also see different types of pine trees.

Animals of Mount Tamalpais

Many animals live on Mount Tamalpais. You might spot deer, coyotes, and various birds. Smaller creatures like the western fence lizard are also common. These lizards are often seen sunning themselves on rocks near the peak.

History of Mount Tamalpais

People have lived around Mount Tamalpais for thousands of years. The first recorded climb by a European-American was in the 1830s. This climb was made by Jacob P. Leese.

Early Views of the Mountain

In the past, Mount Tamalpais was a landmark for sailors and explorers. It was also a popular spot for artists. An 1855 watercolor painting shows how the mountain looked long ago. Around 1910, a postcard showed the "Crookedest Railroad" leading up the mountain from Mill Valley. There was even a weather station and a tavern near the summit in the early 1900s.

Images for kids

  • Tamalpais-derangedtaco

    Sunset behind Mount Tamalpais

  • Marin Hills. Bon Tempe Lake and Lake Lagunitas, Mill Vallet, CA

    The north side of Mount Tamalpais

  • SE view of Summit of Mount Tamalpais near Mill Valley, California

    Looking down at Richardson Bay over 2,300 feet (701 meters) below

  • Mount tamalpais from berkeley

    From Berkeley, across the bay, after a hot day

  • Fog over Mill Valley near Mt. Tamalpais

    Fog forming and flowing over the marine layer over Mill Valley, California, north of San Francisco, on the slopes of Mt. Tamalpais

  • West of Mount Tam

    Open Douglas-fir/oak woodland/grassland to the west transitioning to a mostly dense Douglas-fir forest to the east

  • Douglas firs near the summit of Mount Tamalpais, Mill Valley, CA

    A stand of Douglas-firs near the summit

  • Mount Tamalpais, CA, 2005

    Dying pine tree near the summit of Mount Tamalpais

  • Western fence lizard

    A western fence lizard, common in the area, near the peak of Mount Tamalpais

  • Tam1855

    1855 watercolor

  • PostcardMillValleyCAwithMountTamalpaisCirca1910

    View from Mill Valley in about 1910, showing "Crookedest Railroad"

  • US Weather Bureau station and tavern Mount Tamalpais circa 1900s

    View of the weather station and tavern circa early 1900s

  • Mt. Tam coastline

    Rocky coastline, Mt. Tamalpais State Park

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