The Red Moenkopi Formation and Layered Strata Above Wingate Sandstone, Chinle Formation & the Moenkopi Formation - Capitol Reef Nat Pk

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Capitol Reef National Park in Utah showcases the striking red hues of the Moenkopi Formation, a sedimentary layer dating back to the Triassic Period, formed through fluvial deposition in ancient river systems. Overlying this is the Wingate Sandstone, known for its towering cliffs, and the colorful Chinle Formation, rich in fossilized soils and evidence of prehistoric ecosystems. These stratigraphic sequences illustrate the complex geological history of the Colorado Plateau, where erosion has exposed millions of years of Earth's history. The layered formations create dramatic landscapes that captivate geologists and visitors alike, preserved and managed by the National Park Service.

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Photo credit: © Phil Degginger / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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