Rito Alto Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rito Alto Peak |
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 Rito Alto Peak
Location in Colorado
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 13,803 ft (4,207 m) |
| Prominence | 1,134 ft (346 m) |
| Isolation | 7.28 mi (11.72 km) |
| Parent peak | Mount Adams |
| Listing | Colorado range high points |
| Geography | |
| Location | Custer and Saguache counties, Colorado, U.S. |
| Parent range | Sangre de Cristo Range |
| Topo map | USGS 7.5' topographic map Rito Alto Peak, Colorado |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | hike |
Rito Alto Peak is a very tall mountain in the Sangre de Cristo Range in south-central Colorado. It stands at an elevation of 13,803 ft (4,207 m), which is about 4,207 meters high! This makes it one of the many impressive peaks in the state.
The mountain is located about 11 mi (18 km) west of a town called Westcliffe. It sits within two large protected areas: the Rio Grande National Forest and the San Isabel National Forest. These forests are home to lots of wildlife and beautiful scenery.
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Exploring Rito Alto Peak's Location
Rito Alto Peak is found in a special part of Colorado. It is right on the border between two counties: Custer County and Saguache County. This means the mountain is shared by both areas.
Where is the Sangre de Cristo Range?
The Sangre de Cristo Range is a long, narrow mountain range. It stretches from southern Colorado into northern New Mexico. These mountains are known for their sharp, rocky peaks and deep valleys. The name "Sangre de Cristo" means "Blood of Christ" in Spanish. People say it comes from the red glow the peaks sometimes get at sunrise or sunset.
National Forests Around the Peak
The Rio Grande National Forest and San Isabel National Forest are huge areas of land. They are managed by the U.S. Forest Service. These forests help protect nature and offer places for people to enjoy the outdoors. You can find many trees, plants, and animals living here. They are great spots for hiking, camping, and exploring.
What Makes Rito Alto Peak Special?
Rito Alto Peak is part of a group of very high mountains in Colorado. It's not one of the famous "Fourteeners" (peaks over 14,000 feet), but it's still very tall. Its height makes it a challenging climb for hikers.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
For people who love the outdoors, Rito Alto Peak offers a great adventure. The easiest way to reach the top is by hiking. This means walking on trails, often for many hours. Hikers get to see amazing views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It's a chance to experience nature up close.
Views from the Summit
From the top of Rito Alto Peak, you can see far across Colorado. You might spot other tall mountains, green valleys, and maybe even some small towns in the distance. The air is clear and fresh at such high elevations. It's a rewarding experience for those who make the climb.
