Sentinel Peak (Inyo County, California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sentinel Peak |
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 Sentinel Peak
Location in California
Sentinel Peak
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 9,634 ft (2,936 m) NAVD 88 |
| Geography | |
| Location | Death Valley National Park, Inyo County, California, U.S. |
| Parent range | Panamint Range |
| Topo map | USGS Sentinel Peak |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Trail hike |
Sentinel Peak is a tall mountain located in the amazing Death Valley National Park. It stands proudly in the Panamint Range, a chain of mountains in California, USA. This peak is a cool spot to explore in one of the hottest places on Earth!
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Exploring Sentinel Peak
Sentinel Peak is a significant point within the vast Death Valley National Park. It reaches an elevation of 9,634 feet (about 2,936 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the higher peaks in the Panamint Range. Even though it's in a desert park, mountains like Sentinel Peak can get snow in winter.
Where is Sentinel Peak?
Sentinel Peak is found in Inyo County, California. It is part of the Panamint Range, which runs north to south. This mountain range forms the western border of Death Valley. The peak is also quite close to the historic mining town of Panamint City, California.
Death Valley National Park is famous for many things. It holds the record for the hottest air temperature ever recorded on Earth. It also has the lowest elevation in North America. Despite these extremes, the park is full of diverse landscapes. These include towering mountains, vast salt flats, and colorful canyons.
Reaching the Summit
The easiest way to reach the top of Sentinel Peak is by a trail hike. This means adventurers can walk or climb to the summit. Hiking to the top offers incredible views of the surrounding desert and mountains. It is a challenging but rewarding journey for experienced hikers.
Nature Around the Peak
Even in a desert environment, Sentinel Peak and the Panamint Range support various forms of life. The higher elevations can be cooler than the valley floor. This allows different plants and animals to thrive.
Plants of the Panamint Range
You might find plants like pinyon pines and junipers on the mountain slopes. These trees are adapted to dry conditions. Lower down, you could see desert shrubs and wildflowers after a rare rain. These plants have special ways to save water.
Animals of the Mountain
Animals living near Sentinel Peak are also adapted to the desert. You might spot bighorn sheep climbing the rocky slopes. Lizards and various bird species also make their home here. Even small mammals like rodents live among the rocks. They often come out at night to avoid the heat.
Fun Facts About Death Valley
Death Valley National Park is a place of extremes and wonders.
- It is the largest national park in the lower 48 states.
- The park has incredible geological features. These include sand dunes, salt flats, and colorful badlands.
- Despite its name, Death Valley is full of life. Many plants and animals call it home.
- It is a great place for stargazing because of its clear, dark skies.
