Some crossword clues don’t give away much at first glance, but with the right thinking, they open up beautifully. One such clue is “’Peaks’ on a desert mountain.” If you’ve come across this clue in puzzles like the American quick crossword, NYT mini crossword, or the crossword USA Today, you’re probably trying to figure out what kind of “peaks” they mean and what exactly a “desert mountain” refers to.
Possible answer:
Clue Breakdown: ‘Peaks’ on a Desert Mountain
The quotation marks around “peaks” are your first hint. In crossword language, that usually means the word should be interpreted figuratively. So we’re not looking for mountain peaks, but something resembling peaks found on a desert dwelling creature.
Now think what animal is commonly called a “mountain ride” in desert environments? That’s right: the camel.
And the most noticeable feature on a camel? Its humps.
Put those two clues together, and you get CAMELHUMPS. They rise like peaks on the animal’s back and help it survive long journeys through hot, dry climates.
Why CAMELHUMPS Makes Sense
Not only is it a literal description, but it also fits well into the kind of creative language often found in crosswords. Clues like this reward solvers who can think beyond direct meanings and instead imagine visual metaphors or double meanings.
Fun Fact
Contrary to popular belief, camel humps don’t store water. They’re actually fat reservoirs that help camels survive long stretches without food. That’s one of many fascinating adaptations that make camels the ultimate desert travelers and a perfect subject for a clever crossword clue.
Disclaimer
We are not affiliated with The New York Times, USA Today, or any official crossword publisher. This article is created to support crossword solvers with thoughtful, well explained answers and a deeper appreciation of the clues they love to solve.