Sunbeam Peak facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sunbeam Peak |
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 Sunbeam Peak
Location in Wyoming
Sunbeam Peak
Location in the United States
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 13,446–13,486 ft (4,098–4,111 m) |
| Prominence | 560 ft (170 m) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Fremont County, Wyoming, U.S. |
| Parent range | Wind River Range |
| Topo map | USGS Fremont Peak North |
| Geology | |
| Mountain type | Batholith |
| Climbing | |
| First ascent | 1938 |
Sunbeam Peak is a tall mountain found in the Wind River Range in the U.S. state of Wyoming. It stands very high, between 13,446 and 13,486 feet (about 4,100 meters) above sea level. This makes it one of the highest peaks in Wyoming, ranking as the 13th tallest summit in the state.
The mountain is located within the Shoshone National Forest, a large protected area. On its northern side, you can find the Heap Steep Glacier, a large body of ice that moves slowly. Sunbeam Peak was first climbed by people in 1938.
Staying Safe in the Mountains
When exploring places like the Wind River Range, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Being prepared helps everyone have a fun and safe adventure.
Wildlife and Weather
One thing to remember is that you might see bears. It's always a good idea to know what to do if you meet one. Other things to watch out for include bugs, which can be annoying, and wildfires, especially during dry seasons. The weather can also change quickly in the mountains. You might encounter different snow conditions or very cold temperatures at night, even in summer. Always pack extra layers of clothing.
Mountain Climbing Risks
Climbing mountains like Sunbeam Peak can be exciting, but it also has risks. It's important to be careful, especially on steep parts. People can sometimes slip or encounter falling rocks. These mountains have challenging terrain, meaning the ground can be uneven and tricky to walk on.
Over the years, there have been incidents where people got hurt while exploring the Wind River Range. For example, in 2005, a backpacker needed to be rescued by helicopter near SquareTop Mountain. In 2006, a hiker had an accident that required help from state search and rescue teams. These stories remind us to always be prepared, know our limits, and take safety seriously when enjoying the outdoors. The U.S. Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful and informed before heading into the mountains.
