Red Mountain (Wyoming) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red Mountain |
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 Red Mountain
Location in Wyoming
Red Mountain
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 10,182 ft (3,103 m) |
| Prominence | 297 ft (91 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Grand Teton National Park, Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Teton County, Wyoming, U.S. |
| Parent range | Teton Range |
| Topo map | USGS Ranger Peak |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Red Mountain is a cool mountain peak located in the northern part of the Teton Range. It stands tall at 10,182 ft (3,103 m), which is over 10,000 feet! This makes it a significant landmark in the area.
The mountain is found in the U.S. state of Wyoming. It sits right on the edge of two important natural areas. These are Grand Teton National Park and the Jedediah Smith Wilderness. The wilderness area is part of the larger Caribou-Targhee National Forest.
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What is Red Mountain?
Red Mountain is a peak in a famous mountain range. It is known for its height and its location. Mountains like Red Mountain are often formed over millions of years. This happens when Earth's crust moves and pushes up land.
The name "Red Mountain" might come from the color of its rocks. Sometimes, minerals in the rocks can give mountains a reddish tint. This is especially true when the sun hits them just right.
Where is Red Mountain Located?
Red Mountain is in a very special part of the United States. It is in the northwestern corner of Wyoming. This area is famous for its stunning natural beauty.
The mountain's exact spot is interesting. One side of it is in a national park. The other side is in a wilderness area. This means it is protected from development.
Grand Teton National Park
Grand Teton National Park is a huge protected area. It is known for its amazing mountains, clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park covers more than 310,000 acres. It is a popular place for people to visit.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. Animals like moose, elk, and bears live here. The park helps to keep these animals and their homes safe. Red Mountain is part of this beautiful park landscape.
Jedediah Smith Wilderness
The Jedediah Smith Wilderness is a very wild place. It is part of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. Wilderness areas are even more protected than national parks. This means no roads, vehicles, or permanent structures are allowed.
The goal of a wilderness area is to keep nature as it is. People can hike or ride horses here. But they must leave no trace of their visit. This helps to preserve the natural environment for everyone.
The Teton Range
Red Mountain is part of the Teton Range. This range is a subrange of the larger Rocky Mountains. The Tetons are famous for their sharp, jagged peaks. They rise dramatically from the valley floor.
The Teton Range was formed by a process called faulting. This is when large blocks of the Earth's crust move up or down. The highest peak in the range is Grand Teton. It stands at 13,770 feet tall.
How Mountains are Formed
Mountains like Red Mountain are created by powerful forces. The Earth's crust is made of large pieces called tectonic plates. These plates are always moving, very slowly.
When two plates push against each other, the land can fold and lift. This creates mountains. Sometimes, one plate slides under another. This can also lead to mountain building and volcanoes. The Teton Range is an example of mountains formed by faulting.
Exploring Red Mountain and its Surroundings
Red Mountain is a great place for outdoor adventures. The easiest way to reach its top is by hiking. Hiking in this area offers amazing views. You can see vast forests and other mountain peaks.
When exploring, it is important to be prepared. Hikers should carry water, food, and maps. They should also be aware of wildlife. Always remember to stay on marked trails. This protects both you and the environment.
Wildlife in the Area
The areas around Red Mountain are home to many animals. You might see large mammals like elk, deer, and moose. Smaller animals like marmots and pikas also live here.
Birds of prey, such as eagles and hawks, soar above the peaks. It is important to observe wildlife from a safe distance. Never feed wild animals. This helps them stay wild and healthy.
Protecting Natural Places
Places like Red Mountain, Grand Teton National Park, and the Jedediah Smith Wilderness are very important. They protect natural habitats. They also offer places for people to connect with nature.
It is everyone's job to help protect these areas. This means following park rules. It also means picking up all trash. By doing this, we can ensure these beautiful places remain for future generations.
Images for kids
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A view of the Teton Range in Grand Teton National Park.
