Palisades Peak facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Palisades Peak
Palisades Peak seen from Sunrise Point
Highest point
Elevation	7,040 ft (2,150 m)
Prominence	600 ft (180 m)
Geography
Palisades Peak Location in Washington (state) Show map of Washington (state) Palisades Peak Location in the United States Show map of the United States
Location	Mount Rainier National Park, Pierce County, Washington, U.S.
Parent range	Cascades
Topo map	USGS White River Park
Type of rock	Andesite, Basalt
Climbing
Easiest route	Scrambling class 3

Palisades Peak is a tall mountain peak in Mount Rainier National Park in Washington state. It stands about 7,040 feet (2,146 meters) high. This peak is part of the Sourdough Mountains, which are a smaller group within the larger Cascade Range. Palisades Peak is located close to another peak called Marcus Peak.

The mountain gets its name from its unique look. Its cliffs are made of a type of rock called basalt, and they stand up straight like a fence or a wall. This is why it's called "Palisades," which means a line of tall, strong posts.

You can reach Palisades Peak by hiking the Palisades Lakes Trail. This trail starts at a place called Sunrise Point. Getting to Sunrise Point can be tricky because the road is often closed for much of the year due to heavy snow. Usually, the road is open for cars only during July, August, and September. Water from the peak flows into the White River.

Mountain Climate

Palisades Peak is in a region with a "marine west coast" climate. This means it's often influenced by the Pacific Ocean. Most weather systems come from the Pacific Ocean and move towards the Cascade Range.

When these weather systems hit the tall Cascade Mountains, they are forced to rise. As the air goes higher, it cools down and drops its moisture. This causes a lot of rain or snowfall on the western side of the Cascades, especially in winter.

During winter, the weather is usually cloudy. However, in summer, high-pressure systems over the Pacific Ocean often bring clear skies. Because of the ocean's influence, the snow here tends to be wet and heavy.

• National Park Service web site: Mount Rainier National Park

Marcus Peak (left) with Palisades Peak (right)

The Palisades

Images for kids

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  Mt. Rainier (left) and Palisades Peak (right)