PLEASE NOTE: There have been a proliferation of cache logs received recently where answers to the earthcache questions are never sent. This will no longer be permitted. I reserve the right to delete all logs not meeting this basic earthcache requirement. Effective 8/12/20, all cachers must submit an email or a message with answers to the questions below, ideally before, but within seven days of logging this cache as a find. I understand there are times when access to the internet is limited. When that is the case, I will be happy to work with you on timelines if needed.
At a mere five acres, Mushroom Rock State Park is the smallest but perhaps the most unique state park in Kansas. Located within the park are some of the most unusual rock formations seen anywhere on earth. These oddly shaped rocks, resembling giant mushrooms rising above the horizon, are made of sandstone and sedimentary rock. The rocks were deposited along the edge of an ancient sea during the Cretaceous Period, the interval of geologic time from about 144 to 66 million years ago.
Over time, circulating water mixed grains of sand into a limey cement that grew outward in all directions, creating very hard bodies of sandstone called concretions. The concretions that make up the mushroom rocks are made of calcium carbonate. Two of the tall mushroom rock formations in the park have what appear to be stems. The stems are made of softer forms of sandstone, which has eroded more rapidly over time.
Sedimentary material was deposited in the stones in layers that are almost horizontal to the ground. Some concretions can be found in the park, however, that are not positioned with the sediment running in this manner. These rocks have most likely fallen from their original positions.
These rock formations played a part in early Kansas history. They served as meeting places and landmarks for Native Americans and early pioneers such as John C. Fremont and Kit Carson. There are established trails throughout the park, and basic toilet facilities and picnic tables are available. Permits are not required to visit the park, and admission is free.
In order to log this cache as a find, please send me an email or message with answers to the following questions:
Locate the largest mushroom rock formation on the side of the park south of the road
- What is your estimate as to the height of this formation?
- From the text, what material are these concretions made of?
- From the text, why are the layers of some of the formations NOT parallel to the ground?
Although not required, feel free to post photos. I love looking at them!
Information for the development of this EarthCache came from the websites for the Kansas Geological Survey, University of Kansas and the Kansas Travel and Tourism Division, Kansas Department of Commerce. Thank you to the staff at the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks for granting permission for this EarthCache.
Visit another EarthCache, Rock City (GC1WYJ8), 16 miles north of Salina, for examples of over 200 similar concretions. Mushroom Rock State Park and Rock City have been named as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas in the Geography category.
Congratulations to zrozro7 for being First to Find!
