Peñalara facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Penalara |
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Peñalara (right peak) and its reflection in a glacier lake.
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 2,428 m (7,966 ft) |
Prominence | 1,113 m (3,652 ft) |
Geography | |
Location | Madrid/Segovia, Spain |
Parent range | Sierra de Guadarrama |
Peñalara is the tallest mountain in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range. This range is part of a bigger mountain chain in Spain called the Sistema Central. Peñalara stands at 2,428 meters (about 7,966 feet) above sea level. It is located between the provinces of Madrid and Segovia. Because it's so tall, Peñalara is a very important and well-known peak in the Guadarramas.
The eastern part of Peñalara is in the town of Rascafría in Madrid. This area is part of the Lozoya Valley. The western part of the mountain is in the Valsaín Valley in Segovia. The top of Peñalara is a special protected area. It is called the Parque Natural de Peñalara. This park has several small lakes and some steep cliffs.
About Peñalara Mountain
The shape of Peñalara is mostly rounded. It does not have many sharp edges or overhangs. The sides of the mountain are covered with different types of plants. What grows there depends on how high up you go.
Plants and Trees on Peñalara
At lower heights, from 1,000 to 1,300 meters, you can find many oak tree groves. These forests are mostly untouched by people. Higher up, from 1,100 to 2,000 meters, the mountain slopes are covered with wild pine forests. Even higher, from 2,000 meters up to the very top, the plants change. Here, you will find low-lying bushes that are spread out. These special plants are made for high-altitude living.
Animals Living on Peñalara
The animals living on Peñalara include small mammals. There are also many different kinds of insects. You can also see various bird species flying around. Some of these birds are large, like eagles and vultures.
See also
In Spanish: Peñalara para niños
- Mountain range of Guadarrama
- Peñalara Nature Reserve
- Guadarrama National Park