Petes Hill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Petes Hill |
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 2,126 feet (648 m) |
Geography | |
Location | N of Wells, New York, U.S. |
Topo map | USGS Indian Lake |
Petes Hill is a natural high point, or summit, found in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains of New York State. It is located in the Town of Wells, just north of the small community known as Wells hamlet. Standing at 2,126 feet (about 648 meters) above sea level, Petes Hill is part of the amazing landscape that makes up the Adirondack Park.
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Where is Petes Hill Located?
Petes Hill is nestled in the northern part of Hamilton County, within the huge Adirondack Park. This park is one of the largest protected areas in the United States. The hill sits north of the hamlet of Wells, a quiet community known for its natural surroundings. Its exact location can be found using geographic coordinates: 43°37′40″N 74°16′45″W.
Exploring the Adirondack Mountains
Petes Hill is a small part of the much larger Adirondack Mountains range. These mountains are not like typical mountain ranges that formed from tectonic plates crashing together. Instead, the Adirondacks are a dome-shaped uplift that has been shaped by glaciers over millions of years.
What Makes the Adirondacks Special?
The Adirondack Park covers over 6 million acres, which is larger than some states! It's a mix of public and private land, offering many opportunities for outdoor activities. The park is famous for its:
- Lakes and Rivers: Thousands of lakes, ponds, and rivers wind through the mountains.
- Forests: Dense forests cover most of the park, home to many types of trees.
- Wildlife: You can find animals like black bears, deer, moose, and many bird species here.
Activities Near Petes Hill
While Petes Hill itself might not be a major hiking destination, the area around it in the Adirondacks is perfect for outdoor adventures. People enjoy:
- Hiking: There are countless trails for all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs.
- Camping: Many campsites are available for those who want to spend time in nature.
- Fishing and Boating: The numerous waterways are great for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
- Wildlife Watching: It's a fantastic place to spot animals in their natural habitat.
Why are Hills and Summits Important?
Hills like Petes Hill might seem small compared to towering mountains, but they are important parts of our natural world. They contribute to the local ecosystem and offer unique views of the surrounding landscape.
Understanding Elevation
The elevation of Petes Hill is 2,126 feet. This measurement tells us how high the summit is above sea level. Knowing the elevation helps hikers understand the challenge of a climb and helps scientists study the land.
How Hills are Formed
Hills and mountains are formed in many ways. In the Adirondacks, the landscape was greatly shaped by glaciers during the last Ice Age. These massive sheets of ice carved out valleys and smoothed over peaks, leaving behind the rounded hills and mountains we see today.