Killpecker Sand Dunes EarthCache
Hidden : 12/12/2007
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
1.5 out of 5

Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:


The Killpecker Sand Dunes are the largest active dune field in North America. These “living” dunes are constantly moving across the Killpecker Valley floor. The dunes are about 80 miles long, east to west, although never getting much more than 3 miles wide, north to south.

As sand is blown across the surface of the valley floor layers of sand begin to build up into dunes. Inclined layers are formed when the winds blow the sand, and the sand stacks up on the windward side of the dune. Continued forward climbing movement of layer upon layer of sand results in the formation of cross-bedded layering of sands.

The coordinates will take you to a spot in the dune field which is about 20’ west of the dirt road. Measure a 3’ horizontal distance with a measuring tape and count the layers which are being formed.

To log this cache:

1) Send me an email stating how many cross-bedded layers you measured at this location.

Please consider posting photos of yourself, or the local geology, when you log this EarthCache. Photos can be an additional rewarding part of your journey, but posting them is not a requirement for logging this EarthCache, and is strictly optional.

The above information was compiled from the following sources:

Hausel, W.D. 2006. Geology and Geochemistry of the Leucite Hills Volcanic Field. Wyoming State Geological Survey Report of Investigations No. 56.

BLM. Rock Springs Field Office. (visit link)

Rock Springs, Wyoming. (visit link)

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