Mountain Springs Summit facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mountain Springs Summit |
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| Elevation | 5,502 ft (1,677 m) |
| Traversed by |  SR 160 |
| Location | Clark County, Nevada, US |
| Range | Spring Mountains |
Mountain Springs Summit is a high point in the Spring Mountains of Southern Nevada, in the United States. It sits at an elevation of 5,502 feet (about 1,677 meters) above sea level. This pass is like a natural doorway through the mountains.
It connects the Pahrump Valley on one side with the Las Vegas Valley on the other. Imagine it as a bridge over a mountain ridge. The summit is located where the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest meets the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Nevada State Route 160 is the road that goes right over this important mountain pass.
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Exploring Mountain Springs Summit
Mountain Springs Summit is a key feature in the Spring Mountains. It's a high point on a ridge that separates the Mount Charleston area from the rest of the Mojave Desert. This desert is a very dry region known for its unique plants and animals. The pass helps travelers move between these different areas.
What is a Mountain Pass?
A mountain pass is a low point or a break in a mountain range. It allows people, animals, and roads to cross from one side of the mountains to the other. Without passes like Mountain Springs Summit, traveling over tall mountains would be much harder. They are natural pathways through rugged terrain.
A Glimpse into History
Mountain Springs Summit has been an important route for a long time. It was once part of the historic Old Spanish National Historic Trail. This trail was a famous trade route used in the 1800s.
The Old Spanish Trail
The Old Spanish Trail was a challenging path that stretched for about 1,200 miles. It connected Santa Fe, New Mexico, with Los Angeles, California. Traders used this trail to move goods like blankets, horses, and mules. The trail went right through Mountain Springs Summit. It then continued along the southern part of the Pahrump Valley. This shows how important the pass was for early travelers and traders.
