Mount Zwischen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Zwischen |
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 Mount Zwischen
Location in Colorado
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 12,011 ft (3,661 m) |
| Prominence | 2,266 ft (691 m) |
| Isolation | 4.44 mi (7.15 km) |
| Listing | Colorado prominent summits |
| Geography | |
| Location | Huerfano and Saguache counties, Colorado, United States |
| Parent range | Sangre de Cristo Range |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Medano Pass, Colorado |
Mount Zwischen is an impressive mountain peak located in the Sangre de Cristo Range. This mountain range is part of the much larger Rocky Mountains in North America. Mount Zwischen stands very tall, reaching an elevation of 12,011 feet (which is about 3,661 meters) above sea level.
This peak is found in Colorado, United States. It sits right on the border between two counties: Huerfano County and Saguache County. Mount Zwischen also helps separate two amazing wilderness areas. On one side is the Great Sand Dunes Wilderness, which is part of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. On the other side is the Sangre de Cristo Wilderness, located within the San Isabel National Forest.
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Exploring Mount Zwischen's Location
Mount Zwischen is a significant peak because it stands out from the land around it. It's located about 32 miles (or 51.6 kilometers) northeast of the city of Alamosa, Colorado.
Where the Mountain Sits
The mountain is part of a natural boundary called a drainage divide. This means it's on a high ridge where water flows down in different directions on either side. Water on one side of Mount Zwischen might flow towards the Great Sand Dunes, while water on the other side flows towards the San Isabel National Forest.
Nearby Natural Wonders
- Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve: This park is famous for having the tallest sand dunes in North America. Imagine huge piles of sand that look like they belong in a desert, but they're right here in Colorado!
- San Isabel National Forest: This vast forest offers beautiful landscapes, including towering trees, clear streams, and lots of wildlife. It's a great place for hiking and exploring nature.
The Mountain's Name Through Time
Mountains often have different names throughout history. Mount Zwischen is no exception!
Past Names of the Peak
Before it was officially known as Mount Zwischen, this peak had another name:
- Green Mountain
The name Mount Zwischen became official in 1970. "Zwischen" is a German word that means "between." This name likely refers to its location between the two counties or the two wilderness areas.
