Black Mountain
By Bryce Nielson
It is interesting to observe how people relate to geographical landmarks in an area. When I was a kid, all we had were Quad maps that we couldn’t afford. But that was the way we got around. There was no Google Earth to fly over your area and see the minute detail of everything below in 3-D. You couldn’t check out the SAT view on your phone of where you were at and where you were going. There wasn’t an XHunt to tell you who owns the land and whether you are trespassing or in the wrong state. Other Apps will lead you home and tell you all the details of your trip. They are all incredible.
I think when people visit Bear Lake they are so impressed with a valley full of aqua blue water they don’t see the mountains around it. Most people have no idea where the highest mountain is in Rich County. Some may guess Swan Peak, which is named for a snowdrift, at 8812’. It is located on the west side of the lake. It received its name because in the spring after all the snow is melted in the valley there is one large snow drift just under the peak. It forms a swan and at that time the pioneers knew they could start planting gardens.
The highest peak, just northwest of Swan Peak is unnamed. It is at an elevation of 9255’. It is non-descript and just looks like a high hill. Recently there has been an effort to name it Bridger Peak but I don’t think it is official.
My favorite mountain is Black Mountain. I see it every morning, to the east between North and South Eden, straight up from Hook Canyon. I used to think it looked like a core of a volcano that never erupted. It is made of a metamorphic rock and has unique bright green lichens growing on it. It is in the Over Thrust Belt is known for its petroleum reserves and nugget sandstone. It is also similar to the Crawford’s and Red Mountain. It is forgotten other than a few cows and sage grouse. I have never seen a mountain bike up there but maybe some deer hunters in the fall. When you are on Black Mountain, you are alone. I hope no one ever petitions it to be in a National Monument.
No comments:
Post a Comment