What Is a Mountain Pass?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. What is a mountain pass?

The Big Idea

A mountain pass is a low spot between two peaks, like a gap in a wall! Roads, rails, and trails use passes to cross the mountains. That is easier than climbing over the top.

A Low Gap

Step one: a low gap. A pass is the lowest point along a ridge between two higher peaks. Think of it like a doorway through a very big wall, with peaks on both sides.

Roads and Rails

Step two: roads and rails. Passes are easier for people to cross, so builders put roads and railways there. In western Canada, Rogers Pass and Kicking Horse Pass carry highways and railways through the mountains.

Snowy Winters

Step three: snowy winters. Passes can get lots of snow in winter, and sometimes they close for safety. Crews plow the roads and experts watch the snow so travelers can stay safe.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! There is a high peak on one side. There is another high peak on the other side. The road winds through the gap between them. In winter, the gap can fill with deep snow.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Many mountain passes are named for explorers or for local features. Kicking Horse Pass is one of them. People have used passes for thousands of years, long before there were cars. Passes also funnel wind, so the weather can change fast.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Draw two mountains with a valley between them. Add a road through the pass. Where would you build the road? Tell a grown-up why! Share what you discover with a grown-up.

Outro

A pass is a natural gate through the mountains. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!