Sierra Madre Range (Wyoming) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sierra Madre Range |
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| Sierra Madre Mountains | |
A backcountry road in the Sierra Madre Range near Bridger Peak.
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| Highest point | |
| Peak | Bridger Peak |
| Elevation | 3,354 m (11,004 ft) |
| Geography | |
 Sierra Madre Range
Location in Wyoming
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| Country | United States |
| Parent range | Rocky Mountains |
The Sierra Madre Range is a beautiful mountain range found in the western United States. It stretches across parts of south-central Wyoming and north-central Colorado. These mountains are like an extension of Colorado's Park Range. A very important line called the US Continental Divide runs along the highest points of the Sierra Madre. This divide separates which way the water flows. Water on the western side flows into the Colorado River, while water on the eastern side flows into the North Platte River. The tallest peak in the entire range is Buck Mountain, located in Colorado. Bridger Peak is the highest point on the Wyoming side of the range.
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Welcome to the Sierra Madre Range!
The Sierra Madre Range is a stunning natural area. It offers amazing views and is home to many different plants and animals. People visit these mountains for outdoor adventures. The range is a key part of the larger Rocky Mountains system. It plays an important role in the environment of Wyoming and Colorado.
Where is the Sierra Madre Range?
This mountain range is located in two states: Wyoming and Colorado. You can find it in the southern part of Wyoming and the northern part of Colorado. The mountains are known for their rugged beauty. They are a popular spot for exploring nature.
The highest point in the range is Buck Mountain, which is 11,396 feet (3474 meters) tall. It is located in Colorado. In Wyoming, the tallest peak is Bridger Peak, standing at 11,004 feet (3354 meters). These high points are part of the Continental Divide. This means they help decide where rivers flow.
A Look at the Past: Mining and Gold
Long ago, people found valuable resources in the Sierra Madre Range. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, there was a lot of copper mining. The Ferris-Haggarty mine was a big operation. It was located near Bridger Peak. The main center for these mining activities was near a town called Encampment.
In the 1890s, people also discovered gold in the mountains! This led to a short but exciting gold rush. Thousands of people came hoping to find their fortune. Even today, some people are still interested in finding more gold in the area.
Protecting Nature: Forests and Wilderness
A large part of the Sierra Madre Range is protected land. It is part of the Medicine Bow – Routt National Forest. This forest helps keep the natural environment safe. Within the range, there are special areas called wilderness areas. These include the Encampment River Wilderness and the Huston Park Wilderness. Parts of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness are also here.
Wilderness areas are places where nature is left wild. They are protected from development. This helps preserve the plants, animals, and natural beauty. A road called Wyoming Highway 70 crosses the range. It goes over the Continental Divide at Battle Pass. This road is usually closed in winter because of snow.
Amazing Wildlife of the Sierra Madre
The Sierra Madre Range is home to many different kinds of animals. It's a great place for wildlife! You can find large animals like elk and mule deer here. There are also birds like grouse. Many other species live in these mountains too.
The state's Game and Fish Department has called the wildlife here "world class." This means it's really special! They have suggested that the natural value of the area should be studied. They also recommended protecting it from too much energy development. This helps make sure these amazing animals have a safe place to live.
