Unlock the secrets of our planet's hidden treasure by parking safely, then embark on an exhilarating hike through the woods, over rustic logs, and down a thrilling hill to reveal the final prize. A spectacular basalt amphitheater, framed by some of the best examples of columnar jointing that can be found in western Oregon. Located just outside of Mount Angel, Oregon It’s a place that shows off its geological features and Mother Nature's geometrical talents.
In order to Claim this earth cache you must send me your answers and post a photo of yourself or something meaningful with the falls in the background. I hope you enjoy one of my favorite geological formations.
Questions:
How are columnar basalts formed?
Explain in your own words the geological heating and cooling process that mother nature uses to create them?
Long straight columns of basalt are _____ and irregular or shaped coloumns are called_____?
While taking a good look at the amphitheather observe the columns. Are they all hexagons? If not, what do you see?
Now, for the important part. A lesson on liquid magma, water, and shapes.
Imagine this 15 to 17 million years ago. Yep, you read that correctly these rocks have been standing tall (well, hexagonally) for millions of years.
Imagine a huge flow of hot, liquid magma that is settling. The outer layer is starting to cool and darken in color from orange to black. As it cools, it needs to shrink a bit, as hot materials usually take up more space than cooler ones. Because of this shrinking, the surface of the lava starts to crack. This cracking is not always random.
In this case, the lava starts to crack into regular shapes. Those shapes are forming because of how the lava cools. It starts at different spots called “centers.” If those centers are evenly spaced, the forces that pull inward toward the centers end up creating different chunks of cooling lava that are hexagonal (6-sided), or close to it. The more uniform the material of the lava is (or basically how smooth and well-mixed it is), the more evenly those centers pull. That means it is more likely to cool into hexagonal chunks. Scientists also think that faster cooling, like when lava is exposed to water, may also help with the formation of these columns.
These chunks begin to form at the top layer of the lava, which is cooling the fastest. As lower levels of the lava start to cool, they are also pulled into the shape under each center. In this way, you get lava cooling and contracting down into these cylinders. It usually begins to shape from the top down into the middle or even bottom of the lava flow. This is how tall cylinders can form. And even when the material is a bit irregular, these cylinders can still form. They just might not be hexagons… instead of 6, they might have 5 or 7 sides or a more irregular shape.
When they form long, straight columns, these are called colonnades. When they have more irregular shapes that look like they have been pushed or morphed, it is called entablature.
Columnar jointing forms after a lava flow or other igneous body has solidified, but while it is still at high to medium temperature. It is thought that columnar jointing forms during rapid cooling and that the development of the fracture system allows fluids to circulate which can further hasten the rate of cooling.
Abiqua creek: Flows thru the much of the Santiam forest at this location its drops 92 feet over a columanar hexagonal shaped basalt amphitheater. Located just outside of Mount Angel, Oregon It’s a place where nature shows off its grandeur: water plunging into a serene pool, surrounded by towering basalt cliffs draped in green moss and ferns. But here’s the catch—it’s not your typical stroll-in-the-park. This columanar beauty demands a bit of effort.
The Setting: Picture this: coniferous trees, ancient basalt columns, and the soothing sound of rushing water. It’s like stumbling upon a magical portal to another world.
Basalt Columns: As you hike, keep an eye out for the cool basalt columns. These ancient rock formations add to the mystique. Imagine the Earth whispering its secrets through those hexagonal pillars.
- Trailhead: The official trailhead isn’t accessible by most cars. Depending on your vehicle, you’ve got options. There’s a small parking area right at the start of the dirt road, but if you’re feeling adventurous (and your car can handle it), venture further down. Just be prepared for some bumpy terrain.
- The Hike: From the last parking spot, it’s about a 1-mile round trip. But wait, there’s a twist! If your car can’t handle the downhill bumpy road, you’ll need to walk. The first parking area adds about 5 miles to the hike.
- Trail Markers: Brace yourself—there aren’t many. But fear not! Follow the road and the trail will be on the Left. If you've hit a gate you've gone too far.
- The Descent: Eventually, you’ll encounter two fallen trees parallel to each other, leading down to the river’s edge. There’s a rope to guide you—it’s like nature’s handrail. Once at the bottom of the creek take a left and walk along the water's edge.
Important Tips:
- Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Flip-flops won’t cut it.
- No Bathrooms: Nature calls? Well, nature’s your bathroom. Be prepared.
- Rope Skills: You’ll encounter ropes—like a jungle gym for grown-ups. Use them wisely. (It's not that bad I've hiked here solo with 3 kids.)
- High Clearance: If your vehicle has at least 18 inches of clearance, you’re golden. I'VE MADE IT AS FAR AS YOU CAN GO IN A FOUR-DOOR 2000 BUICK LE SABRE!
Remember, Abiqua Falls is not just a waterfall; it is an experience—a scramble, a challenge, and a reward all rolled into one. So, when you finally stand there, embrace the mist on your face, surrounded by moss-covered cliffs, you will know it was worth every step.
I discovered this location about 10 years ago. It deserves a favorite in my books. Happy earth caching!!!
