A pothole or kettle formation is a circular or cylindrical hole in a riverbed that was created by erosion.
As water flows over a riverbed, small stones and pebbles are carried along in the current, and get caught up in eddies. As these stones and pebbles circle around in the current, they erode the rock surface on the river bottom, and as more stones and pebbles are added to this process, the circular hole deepens, drilling out the pothole or kettle.
Geologists have associated potholes with large volumes of very turbulent water, often the result of melting glaciers which carry debris downriver. First, as the glacier advanced, it scoured out the softer sediment and wiped clean loose rocks which are carried in the advancing glacier. Then as the glacier retreats, the loose sediment is released into the rivers and streams when the ice melts.
Logging Requirements:
Answer the following questions and send your answers using geocaching messenger or email to my profile within 4 days of your visit. If sending answers for more than one geocaching team, include the names of the people in your group when sending answers.
- Measure the width and depth of the pothole that is located next to the viewing platform at the posted coordinates
- Can you tell whether the water was circling in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction when the pothole or kettle formed?
- Optional: Photos are appreciated however no spoiler photos showing the pothole, please.