Paguekwash Point facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Paguekwash Point |
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Paguekwash Point
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 5,663 ft (1,726 m) |
| Prominence | 323 ft (98 m) |
| Isolation | 7.96 mi (12.81 km) |
| Parent peak | Fishtail Mesa |
| Geography | |
| Location | Grand Canyon National Park Mohave County, Arizona, US |
| Parent range | Coconino Plateau, Colorado Plateau |
| Topo map | USGS Kanab Point |
| Geology | |
| Age of rock | Lower Triassic down to Pennsylvanian |
| Mountain type | sedimentary rock: limestone, sandstone,siltstone, mudstone, shale |
| Type of rock | Moenkopi Formation, Kaibab Limestone, Toroweap Formation, Coconino Sandstone, Hermit Shale |
Paguekwash Point is a tall peak in the western part of the Grand Canyon. It stands at about 5,663 feet (1,726 meters) above sea level. You can find it in Mohave County, Arizona, in the southwestern United States. This point is on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It is about 4.5 miles northwest of Mount Sinyella. The famous Colorado River flows nearby, about a mile to the east and 1.5 miles to the west. Another peak, Kanab Point, is about 2 miles northwest. Paguekwash Point is in a very dry part of the Grand Canyon. Because it's so dry, there is almost no plant life on the landform.
Exploring Paguekwash Point
Paguekwash Point is a striking feature in the vast Grand Canyon National Park. It is part of the Coconino Plateau within the larger Colorado Plateau. This area is known for its amazing views and unique geology.
The Grand Canyon itself is a huge canyon carved by the Colorado River. It is one of the most famous natural wonders in the world. Paguekwash Point offers a glimpse into the canyon's immense scale.
Geology of the Point
The rocks that make up Paguekwash Point tell a long story. They formed over millions of years, from the Lower Triassic period down to the Pennsylvanian period. These rocks are mostly sedimentary rock. Sedimentary rocks are formed from layers of sand, mud, and ancient sea creatures that settled over time.
The types of rocks found here include:
- Limestone: Formed from the shells and skeletons of marine animals.
- Sandstone: Made from grains of sand cemented together.
- Siltstone: Similar to sandstone but with finer particles.
- Mudstone and Shale: Formed from compacted mud and clay.
These different layers create the distinct bands of color you see in the Grand Canyon. Specific rock formations at Paguekwash Point include the Moenkopi Formation, Kaibab Limestone, Toroweap Formation, Coconino Sandstone, and Hermit Shale. Each layer represents a different time in Earth's history.
Life in a Dry Landscape
Paguekwash Point is in a very arid, or dry, part of the Grand Canyon. This means it gets very little rain. Because of this, the landform has almost no plants. However, the wider Grand Canyon area is home to many types of plants and animals. Even in dry areas, some tough plants and animals can survive. You might find hardy cacti or small lizards adapted to the desert environment.
The Grand Canyon's diverse ecosystems support a variety of wildlife. This includes bighorn sheep, condors, and many types of birds. Even though Paguekwash Point itself is barren, it's part of a much larger, living landscape.