Reas Pass facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Reas Pass |
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|---|---|
| Elevation | 6,930 ft (2,112 m) |
| Traversed by | former Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way |
| Location | Fremont County, Idaho, US |
| Range | Rocky Mountains |
| Coordinates | 44°34′03″N 111°11′22″W / 44.56750°N 111.18944°W |
| Topo map | USGS Reas Pass |
Reas Pass is a mountain pass located in the Rocky Mountains, specifically in Fremont County, Idaho, USA. A mountain pass is like a low spot or a "doorway" through a mountain range, making it easier to travel from one side to the other. Reas Pass is about 8 miles (13 km) southwest of West Yellowstone, Montana.
This pass sits on the Continental Divide. The Continental Divide is an imaginary line that runs through the Americas. On one side, rivers and streams flow towards the Atlantic Ocean, and on the other side, they flow towards the Pacific Ocean. Even though Reas Pass is on this important divide, its highest point is completely within Idaho.
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What Makes Reas Pass Special?
Reas Pass is quite unique because it's one of the lowest points to cross the Continental Divide in its area. Usually, low passes are perfect for building roads. However, Reas Pass has never had a major highway built over it. This makes it different from many other mountain passes.
A Historic Railroad Route
Even without a highway, Reas Pass played an important role in history. Starting in 1909, a special train track used this pass. This was a branch line of the Union Pacific Railroad. A branch line is like a smaller side road that connects to a main highway. This particular line ran between Ashton, Idaho, and West Yellowstone.
Why the Railroad Was Important
The Union Pacific Railroad used this route to carry people and goods. It was especially helpful for reaching West Yellowstone, which is a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Imagine how exciting it must have been to travel by train through the mountains over 100 years ago!
The End of the Line
Over time, fewer people used the train for travel and shipping in this area. The railroad line eventually stopped making enough money to cover its costs. Because it became "unprofitable," the Union Pacific Railroad closed the line in 1979. Today, the old path of the railroad is a reminder of the pass's interesting past.
