Mount Zirkel facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Mount Zirkel
View of West face of Mt. Zirkel in Mt. Zirkel Wilderness in northern Colorado, taken from Fryingpan Basin
Highest point
Elevation	12,185 ft (3,714 m)
Prominence	3,470 ft (1,058 m)
Isolation	37.66 mi (60.61 km)
Listing	Colorado county high points 36th
Naming
Etymology	Ferdinand Zirkel
Geography
Mount Zirkel Location in Colorado
Location	Jackson County and the high point of Routt County, Colorado, U.S.
Parent range	Highest summit of the Park Range
Topo map	USGS 7.5' topographic map Mount Zirkel, Colorado
Climbing
Easiest route	hike

Mount Zirkel is a very tall mountain in Colorado, United States. It is the highest point in the Park Range, which is part of the huge Rocky Mountains. This amazing peak stands at 12,185-foot (3,714 m) high. It is located in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness area, inside the Routt National Forest.

Mount Zirkel is about 41.7 kilometers (26 miles) north of the city of Steamboat Springs. The mountain sits right on the Continental Divide. This means it's on the line where water flows either to the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean. It also marks the border between Jackson and Routt counties. The mountain was named after a German scientist, Ferdinand Zirkel.

Mount Zirkel: A Majestic Peak

Mount Zirkel is a very important mountain in Colorado. It is known for its impressive height and its location. The mountain is the highest point in the Park Range. This range is a smaller part of the larger Rocky Mountains.

What is a Wilderness Area?

Mount Zirkel is found within the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. A wilderness area is a special place. It is protected by the government to keep it wild and natural. People can visit these areas for activities like hiking and camping. However, there are rules to make sure the land stays untouched. This helps protect the plants and animals that live there.

Routt National Forest

The mountain is also part of the Routt National Forest. National Forests are large areas of land. They are managed for many uses, like logging, recreation, and wildlife protection. Routt National Forest is a beautiful place. It has many trees, rivers, and wildlife.

Where is Mount Zirkel Located?

Mount Zirkel is in the state of Colorado in the United States. It is in the northern part of the state. The mountain is unique because it sits on a county line. It is partly in Jackson County and partly in Routt County. It is also the highest point in Routt County.

The Continental Divide

One of the most interesting things about Mount Zirkel's location is the Continental Divide. This is a line of high ground. It runs through North and South America. On one side of the divide, water flows east. It eventually reaches the Atlantic Ocean. On the other side, water flows west. It then goes to the Pacific Ocean. Mount Zirkel is right on this important natural boundary.

The Park Range and Rocky Mountains

Mount Zirkel is the tallest mountain in the Park Range. The Park Range is a mountain range in Colorado. It stretches for about 160 kilometers (100 miles). It is known for its beautiful forests and high peaks.

Part of the Rockies

The Park Range is part of the much larger Rocky Mountains. The Rockies are a huge mountain system. They stretch across North America. They go from Canada all the way to New Mexico in the United States. These mountains are famous for their stunning views. They are also home to many different kinds of wildlife.

Who Was Ferdinand Zirkel?

Mount Zirkel was named in honor of a German geologist named Ferdinand Zirkel. A geologist is a scientist. They study the Earth's solid features. This includes rocks, mountains, and how the Earth changes over time.

A Renowned Geologist

Ferdinand Zirkel lived from 1833 to 1912. He was a very important geologist. He was known for his work with rocks. He studied how different types of rocks are formed. Naming a mountain after him was a way to honor his contributions to science.

Exploring Mount Zirkel

Mount Zirkel is a popular spot for outdoor activities. The easiest way to reach the summit is by hiking. Many people enjoy exploring the Mount Zirkel Wilderness. They come to see its beautiful scenery and enjoy nature.