The Smallest Mountain in the World

There are hundreds of mountains in the world, ranging in size and characteristics. Some of the well-known mountains of the world include Mount Everest, which at 8,848 m is the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro which is the tallest mountain in Africa, and Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Europe, among other mountains. The Himalaya Range boasts of some of the tallest peaks in the world. In fact, nine of the ten tallest mountains are found within the Himalaya Range. These tall mountains boast of rich history and significance of their surroundings. Let us shift focus and concentrate on the smallest mountain in the world. Did you know that the smallest recorded mountain is in Australia? But which of the Australian mountains is the smallest?

Smallest Mountain: Mount Wycheproof

The smallest mountain in the world is the little known Mount Wycheproof at 141 feet above the surrounding terrain. However, the mountain stands 486 feet above the sea level. The mountain is located in Terrick Terrick Range in Australia. The range is in the small town of Wycheproof, Victoria. It can also be said that the town is located on the summit of the mountain. Wycheproof has a population of approximately 789 people. Mount Wycheproof is sometimes referred to as a hill and there has been a debate as to whether to categorize it as a mountain or a hill. The mountain has several tracks and some local wildlife such as kangaroos can be spotted.

Although Mount Wycheproof is the smallest mountain in the world, it is not as prominent as Mount Everest, the tallest mountain. Interestingly, more people have reached the summit of Mount Everest than Mount Wycheproof, though it is easy to scale Wycheproof.

Naming of Mount Wycheproof

Mount Wycheproof was named after the town of Wycheproof in which it is located. Settlement in the area began as early as 1845 but the township was surveyed in 1875. The name “Wycheproof” was derived from the aboriginal language “Wichi-poorp,” meaning “grass on a hill.” The hill, which is Mount Wycheproof, is an important place for the local community, with annual races to the hilltop.

Geology of the Mountain

The mountain is a granite outcrop located in a flat grassland area. It is characterized by a rounded terrain that is consistent with the terrain of the surrounding area. Mount Wycheproof share several similarities with the neighboring Pyramid Hill and is part of the Terrick Terrick Range. It rises up to 486 feet above the sea level and 141 feet above the surrounding area. The mountain has a rocky, conical peak which is common in the western area of Victoria. Wycheproof has its own unique mineral known as Wycheproofite. However, phosphate mineral is rare in Victoria. Wycheproofite is transparent and pinkish in color.

Activities on Mount Wycheproof

The not so popular Mount Wycheproof is an important site for the annual Grain Festival, family picnic, and dinner on the mount. The government of Victoria has invested on the mountain through Regional Development Victoria to make it more enjoyable for visitors. Tourists visiting the area can enjoy a barbeque, walk on the long tracks, or sit around the spectacular 7-foot sculpture on the summit.