Somerset Range facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Somerset Range |
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The Somerset Range is marked 14 on map.
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| Dimensions | |
| Area | 203 km2 (78 sq mi) |
| Geography | |
| Country | Canada |
| State/Province | British Columbia |
| Range coordinates | 48°47′41″N 124°59′34″W / 48.79472°N 124.99278°W |
| Parent range | Vancouver Island Ranges |
The Somerset Range is a group of low mountains and hills located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It stretches between two important water bodies: Nitinat Lake and Imperial Eagle Channel, which is part of Barkley Sound.
This mountain range covers an area of about 203 square kilometers (that's about 78 square miles). It's not a standalone range but is actually a smaller part of a larger mountain system called the Vancouver Island Ranges. These ranges, in turn, are part of an even bigger chain of mountains known as the Insular Mountains.
Contents
Where is the Somerset Range?
The Somerset Range is found on the western side of Vancouver Island. This island is located off the coast of mainland British Columbia. The range sits right next to the Pacific Ocean.
- Nitinat Lake: To its east, you'll find Nitinat Lake. This is a large, long lake that is popular for windsurfing and other water sports.
- Barkley Sound: To its west, the range meets Barkley Sound. This sound is a complex area of islands and inlets. It's known for its beautiful coastline and marine life.
Being positioned between these two water features makes the Somerset Range a unique place. It's a land of hills and valleys that connect the lake to the ocean.
What is the Somerset Range Like?
The Somerset Range is considered a "low" mountain range. This means its peaks are not as tall as some of the famous, towering mountains you might imagine. Instead, it features rolling hills and smaller peaks. These features create a landscape that is often covered in dense forests.
The area is known for its rugged beauty. It has many natural features like:
- Steep slopes
- Deep valleys
- Rocky outcrops
Because of its location on Vancouver Island, the Somerset Range experiences a mild, wet climate. This climate helps support the lush forests that grow there.
Nature in the Somerset Range
The forests of the Somerset Range are part of the larger coastal temperate rainforest ecosystem. This type of forest is very rich in plant and animal life.
Plants of the Somerset Range
The main types of trees you would find here are:
- Douglas fir: A very tall evergreen tree.
- Western hemlock: Another common evergreen, often found in moist areas.
- Western redcedar: A tree important to Indigenous peoples for its wood and bark.
The forest floor is also home to many smaller plants. You might see ferns, mosses, and various types of shrubs. These plants thrive in the damp, mild conditions.
Animals of the Somerset Range
The Somerset Range provides a home for many different animals. The dense forests and nearby water bodies offer plenty of food and shelter.
Some of the animals that live here include:
- Black bears: These large mammals are common throughout Vancouver Island.
- Roosevelt elk: A large subspecies of elk found in the Pacific Northwest.
- Deer: Such as black-tailed deer.
- Wolves: Though shy, they can be found in the more remote areas.
The nearby lakes and ocean also support a variety of bird species and marine animals. This makes the Somerset Range an important part of the local ecosystem.
Exploring the Somerset Range
While not as famous as some other mountain ranges, the Somerset Range offers opportunities for outdoor activities. Its natural beauty and wildlife make it appealing to those who enjoy nature.
Activities might include:
- Hiking: Exploring the trails through the forests.
- Wildlife viewing: Trying to spot the animals that live in the area.
- Photography: Capturing the scenic landscapes.
The range's connection to Nitinat Lake and Barkley Sound also means that water-based activities are often combined with land exploration.
