North Pass facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Pass |
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Looking east from the top of the pass. The inset shows the sign on the south side of the pass.
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| Elevation | 10,010 ft (3,051 m) |
| Traversed by | State Highway 114 |
| Location | Saguache County, Colorado, U.S. |
| Range | Cochetopa Hills |
| Coordinates | 38°13′00″N 106°34′32″W / 38.21667°N 106.57556°W |
| Topo map | USGS North Pass |
North Pass is a high mountain pass located in the state of Colorado, U.S.. It crosses over the Continental Divide, which is like a giant imaginary line that separates the flow of water across a continent. This pass is found in Saguache County.
North Pass reaches an elevation of 10,010 ft (3,050 m), which is over 10,000 feet above sea level! It's a very important route for travel in this part of Colorado.
What is a Mountain Pass?
A mountain pass is a low point or gap in a mountain range. Think of it as a natural doorway through tall mountains. These passes make it easier for people, animals, and even roads to cross over mountains. Without passes, traveling across mountain ranges would be much harder.
Mountain passes are often formed by glaciers or rivers over many thousands of years. They are crucial for trade, transportation, and exploration.
Crossing the Continental Divide
North Pass is special because it crosses the Continental Divide. This is a major ridge of high ground in North America. Rain and snow that fall on one side of the Divide flow towards the Pacific Ocean. Water that falls on the other side flows towards the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico.
The Continental Divide runs through many states, including Colorado. It's a key geographical feature that shapes the flow of water across the continent.
North Pass and Travel
Colorado State Highway 114 uses North Pass to get through the mountains. This highway connects the town of Saguache to the southeast with Gunnison to the northwest. It's a paved road that can be used in all kinds of weather.
This makes North Pass a reliable route for drivers. It helps people travel between different parts of Colorado, even when other mountain roads might be closed due to snow or bad conditions. The pass is a vital link for local communities and visitors exploring the beautiful Colorado mountains.
