North Cascades National Park Geography Quiz
Glaciers, rugged mountains, watersheds (10 questions).
North Cascades National Park Geography Quiz: Quick Study Notes
North Cascades National Park, often called the “American Alps,” is a majestic expanse of glaciated peaks, deep valleys, and pristine watersheds. Its dramatic landscape is a testament to powerful geological forces and ongoing glacial activity, making it a critical area for ecological study and conservation. This quiz and study guide will help you explore its unique geographical features.
Key Features
Key Takeaways
- North Cascades National Park contains over 300 named glaciers, the most in the lower 48 states.
- The park’s mountains are famously rugged, shaped by intense glacial erosion.
- It serves as the headwaters for the Skagit River, a significant river system in the Pacific Northwest.
- Many of its high-alpine lakes exhibit a distinctive milky turquoise color due to suspended “glacial flour.”
- Goode Mountain is the highest peak entirely within the park’s boundaries.
- The terrain is primarily composed of diverse metamorphic and igneous rock.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many glaciers are in North Cascades National Park?
North Cascades National Park complex is estimated to contain over 300 named glaciers, giving it the highest concentration of glaciers in the contiguous United States.
What makes the mountains of North Cascades so rugged?
The mountains’ ruggedness is primarily due to extensive glacial erosion over millions of years, which carved out steep valleys and sharpened peaks. The underlying geology of hard metamorphic and igneous rock also contributes to their resistance to weathering.
Which major river watershed originates in North Cascades National Park?
The North Cascades National Park complex is a critical headwaters region for the Skagit River, which is vital for hydroelectric power generation and supports one of the largest salmon runs in the Pacific Northwest.
Why are some lakes in the park a milky blue-green?
The distinctive milky blue-green color of many high-alpine lakes in the park is caused by “glacial flour.” This is finely ground rock particles suspended in the water, a byproduct of glaciers grinding against bedrock.
What is the highest point within North Cascades National Park?
The highest peak entirely within North Cascades National Park boundaries is Goode Mountain, reaching an elevation of 9,206 feet (2,806 meters).
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