The towering red rock walls of Garden of the Gods are composed primarily of red Permian sandstone, originally formed from ancient sand dunes over 250 million years ago. These sandstones were later uplifted and tilted nearly vertical by the massive geologic forces of the Rocky Mountain uplift. Today, erosion continues to shape the dramatic cliffs and fins that we see.
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- The Lyons Sandstone is about 250 million years old (Permian period).
- It was deposited as sand dunes in a desert environment.
- The rocks were tilted nearly vertical during the Laramide Orogeny, about 65–70 million years ago.
- Iron oxide staining gives them their distinct red/orange color.
- Today, erosion continues to sculpt them.
The Garden of the Gods Visitor Center explains that the red rocks are composed of Lyons Sandstone, deposited as sand dunes over 250 million years ago. During the Laramide Orogeny, mountain-building forces pushed the layers upright, forming the towering fins we see today.
At the posted coordinates, you can observe these sandstone walls up close. Take a moment to study their color, texture, and structure. Use your observations and the cache page to answer the following questions:
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Logging Questions:
1. Rock Formation Origins:
Looking at the vertical red rock face in front of you, what evidence do you see that suggests these rocks were once ancient sand dunes? (Hint: Look for cross-bedding, layering, or patterns in the rock.)
2. Coloration:
The rocks here are a distinct red/orange color. What mineral gives sandstone its red color? Based on what you see, how might this mineral have formed in the ancient environment?
3. Geologic Forces:
Notice how these rocks are tilted almost vertically. What geologic event or process caused originally horizontal sand layers to stand upright like this?
4. Erosion in Action:
Look closely at the rock face and surrounding boulders. Identify one way that erosion is actively shaping these formations today (examples: cracks, fallen boulders, smooth faces, vegetation growing in fractures).
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Logging Requirement:
Please do not post your answers to the questions above, send them in a message. Include a photo of yourself or your GPS with the rock formations in the background.
References / Sources