Rainbow Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rainbow Peak |
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![]() Rainbow Peak is the snowy summit to the right and Bowman Lake is in the foreground
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Highest point | |
Elevation | 9,895 ft (3,016 m) |
Prominence | 3,636 ft (1,108 m) |
Geography | |
Location | Flathead County, Montana, U.S. |
Parent range | Livingston Range |
Topo map | USGS Mount Carter, MT |
Climbing | |
Easiest route | class 3 |
Rainbow Peak is a tall and impressive mountain located in Glacier National Park in Montana, a state in the U.S.. It stands at 9,895 feet (3,016 m) high, making it one of the tallest peaks in the park. The mountain is part of the Livingston Range and is known for its stunning views.
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Discovering Rainbow Peak
Rainbow Peak gets its name from the Rainbow Glacier, a large ice formation found just east and northeast of the mountain. This peak is quite special because it's the ninth-tallest mountain in all of Glacier National Park. Imagine looking up at a mountain that rises over 1 mile (1.6 km) above the beautiful Bowman Lake!
Where is Rainbow Peak Located?
Rainbow Peak is found in the northern part of Glacier National Park. This park is famous for its rugged mountains, clear lakes, and amazing wildlife. The peak is specifically in Flathead County, Montana. If you were to visit, you'd find it towering over the landscape, especially when looking from Bowman Lake.
How Tall is Rainbow Peak?
Standing at 9,895 feet (3,016 m), Rainbow Peak is nearly two miles high! To give you an idea of how much climbing that involves, if you started from the parking lot at the Bowman Lake Campground, you would gain 5,865 ft (1,788 m) in elevation to reach the top. "Elevation gain" means how much higher you go from your starting point to your destination. That's a lot of uphill walking!
The Rainbow Glacier
The Rainbow Glacier is a large body of ice that sits near Rainbow Peak. Glaciers are like very slow-moving rivers of ice. They form over many years as snow piles up and gets compressed. The presence of the Rainbow Glacier adds to the beauty and unique environment around the peak.
Exploring the Area Around Rainbow Peak
While climbing Rainbow Peak itself can be challenging, the area around it, especially Bowman Lake, is a popular spot for visitors. People enjoy hiking, camping, and taking in the incredible scenery. The views of Rainbow Peak from Bowman Lake are truly breathtaking, showing off its snowy summit and the vastness of the park.