Earth Spine Mountains

The Earth Spine Mountains, or "Earth's Spine" as many call it, is the mountain range on Thrimora, spanning the entirety of the central continent from north to south, and effectively splitting it in two.

Geography
The mountains of the Earth's Spine are large and old. They jut far into the sky, forming jagged formations of rocky peaks. Running from the northern coast of the Kolmar Hinterlands to the edge of the Auran Belt, the range covers thousands of miles of land.

Because it is situated in the center of the continent, the Earth's Spine effectively divides Thrimora between east and west. There are very few paths that are flat enough, and safe enough, for large groups to traverse through via normal means. Small groups on foot can use smaller and lesser known routes if they so choose, but many of these ventures end poorly for those who are unfamiliar with the terrain.

Climate
Although the mountains span the entire continent, their climate varies only slightly between north and south, mostly due to their extreme height. The southern portions of the mountains are slightly warmer and wetter, seeing more rain each year, while the northern portions are dryer and colder, with more snow. The highest peaks are typically snow-capped year round, and once one travels into its heights, the Earth's Spine is relatively cold throughout. It is not uncommon for even the southern passes to see snow during autumn and spring as well as winter.

Notable Locations

 * Mount Atesh: The second highest peak of the Earth's Spine, this mountain houses the dwarven capital of Karathor.
 * Mount Kerak: The highest mountain of the Earth's Spine, the peak of which is always covered in clouds and snow.
 * Gap of Elosai: Southernmost of the four passes, which connects the Bitter Wood and the Forest of Arda.
 * Blade's Edge Pass: One of the four passes through the mountains, this area contains a settlement used as a way-point for trading caravans and travelers looking to resupply.
 * Divine Way: The northernmost of the four passes, leading to Noros, and named for its numerous statues and effigies of the various deities.
 * Varus Edar: The most central of the four passes, and by far the most dangerous, none but the most foolhardy attempt to travel through here.