The Ural Mountains are a mountain range that stretches from north to south through western Russia, from the coast of the Arctic Ocean to the Ural River and northwestern Kazakhstan. They form a natural border between Europe and Asia, and are considered to be one of the most important mountain ranges in the world. The highest peak in the Urals is Mount Narodnaya, which stands at 1, 895 meters (6, 217 feet). The Ural Mountains have been an important trade route since ancient times, and are home to many species of plants and animals.