Curious Gorge EarthCache
Hidden : 7/23/2010
Difficulty:
1 out of 5
Terrain:
4 out of 5

Size: Size: other (other)

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Geocache Description:

Curious Gorge

Along the Rio Grande Rift is an extensive area of volcanism, millions-of-years old, per current scientific theory, known as the Taos Plateau volcanic field.



This vast basalt field was created by volcanic eruptions and pressure of scraping plates below the surface. Magma spewed up from the mantle and spread along the plateau.

Due to the soluble nature of the basalt field, erosion is likely. The Rio Grande flows through the plateau, a few miles west of Taos, NM. The river's flowing waters eroded the rock and created the Rio Grande Gorge.




The coordinates are at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, about 700 feet above the river.



The bridge is about thirteen miles northwest of Taos on U.S. 64. Parking is available at both ends of the 1,500-foot-long span.

To log this earthcache, please visit the site and submit your answers to the following questions:

1) In your estimation, how wide is the Rio Grande at the bottom of the gorge?

2) Using your GPS receiver, record the elevation at the bridge?

3) From the stone monument in the east parking area, name two of the New Mexico State Highway Commission members.

OPTIONAL: Photographs will be met with giddy earthcache-geek excitement.



Resources and credits:
Ann Bryant
FlyAnglersOnline.com
Gary Hayes
Geology.com
John Nielson
Whitewater.RedRockSport.com
Wikipedia
William Horton Photography


Placed by a member of Denton-Area Wayward Geocache Seekers.

Additional Hints (No hints available.)



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