The Rocky Mountains, also known as the Rockies, are a major mountain range located in western North America. The range stretches more than 3,000 miles (4,800 km) from British Columbia, Canada in the north to New Mexico, United States in the south. The Rocky Mountains are a part of the North American Cordillera, a chain of mountain ranges that runs from Alaska to Mexico.The Rockies are known for their majestic peaks, rugged landscapes, and diverse ecosystems. The highest peak in the range is Mount Elbert, located in Colorado, which stands at 14,440 feet (4,401 m) above sea level. The range also includes many other notable peaks, such as Mount Robson in British Columbia, which is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and Mount Whitney in California, which is the highest peak in the contiguous United States.The Rockies are home to a diverse array of plant and animal life, including many species that are found nowhere else on Earth. Some of the most iconic animals of the Rockies include the grizzly bear, elk, bighorn sheep, and mountain lion. The range is also home to several national parks and protected areas, including Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado, Jasper National Park in Alberta, and Banff National Park in British Columbia.