47 Rock Formations to Explore in United States

Campground surrounded by large boulders and rock formations for which the Joshua Tree National Park is well known for.

Lexington Arch is a stunning natural landmark located in White Pine County. It is a massive natural arch that spans over 75 feet and stands at a height of 35 feet. The arch is made of sandstone and was formed over millions of years through erosion and weathering.Lexington Arch is situated in a remote area of the county and can be accessed via a scenic dirt road. The arch is located near the town of Ely and is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Hiking trail through an old mine, three mile hike to the peak offers panoramic views of south eastern side of Joshua Tree National Park.

The Menan Buttes, located in Madison County, Idaho, are a unique geological formation and prominent landmarks in the region. These two extinct volcanic cones rise dramatically from the surrounding flat landscape, creating a stunning contrast and offering visitors a distinctive natural sight.

The Rim is an escarpment defining the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau. Its central and most spectacular portions are characterized by high cliffs of limestone and sandstone, namely the Kaibab Limestone and Coconino Sandstone cliffs. Mogollon Rim provides breathtaking views overlooking an expansive forest of pine trees.

Monument Rocks, also known as the Chalk Pyramids, are a remarkable geological formation located in Gove County, Kansas. These towering limestone pillars rise dramatically from the surrounding prairie landscape, reaching heights of up to 70 feet. As one of the Eight Wonders of Kansas, Monument Rocks are a testament to the forces of erosion that have sculpted the region over millions of years.

The Mount Irish Wilderness in Lincoln County, Nevada is the perfect place for adventure and exploration. This remote wilderness area boasts rugged terrain, breathtaking views, and an abundance of wildlife. From the stunning red sandstone formations to the lush valleys and canyons, this area is a feast for the eyes. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some of the elusive wildlife that calls this area home, like bighorn sheep or golden eagles.

New Eddystone Rock, located near Ketchikan, Alaska, is a striking and iconic natural landmark that stands as a testament to the rugged beauty of the Southeast Alaskan coast.It is situated within the Tongass National Forest, approximately 40 miles (64 kilometers) southwest of Ketchikan, Alaska. It is part of the Alexander Archipelago, a chain of islands known for their dramatic landscapes.

Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona, Arizona is one of the most beautiful spots in the state. Here is where people come to interact with Oak Creek Canyon in Sedona, Arizona is one of the most beautiful spots in the state. Here is where people come to interact with nature and its wonders, and where people come to get away from the busy city life with the goal of ultimate relaxation. The canyon is often described as a smaller cousin of the Grand Canyon because of its scenic beauty.and its wonders, and wher

Point of Rocks, located in Morton County, Kansas, is a prominent geological feature that holds historical and cultural significance. Rising abruptly from the surrounding prairie, Point of Rocks is a distinctive rock formation that served as a landmark and navigational aid for travelers along the historic Santa Fe Trail in the 19th century.

Pratt Rocks in Greene county is a stunning natural formation that is sure to impress. This geological wonder is located near Prattsville and is made up of towering rock formations that are unique to the area. The rocks were formed millions of years ago and have since been sculpted by natural weathering and erosion to create the dramatic and captivating sight that we can see today. Visitors can explore the area by hiking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views.

Raven Rocks are a spur of Blue Ridge Mountain. It is formed by the drainage gorges of Rocky Branch Creek to the north and Raven Rocks Creek to the south on the mountains western watershed. The formation is often referred to as the rollercoaster by Appalachian Trail hikers as the trail undulates between these spurs and hollows along the western face of the mountain along this stretch of the ridge.

Register Rock State Historic Site, located in Power County, Idaho, is a significant historical site preserving a tangible record of pioneer history and Native American heritage. It stands as a testament to the history of westward expansion in the United States, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to witness pioneer inscriptions and learn about the Oregon Trail's impact on the region's history and cultural heritage in Power County, Idaho.

Sheep Rock is an overlook of Hells Canyon in the Payette National Forest about 45 miles northwest of Council, Idaho. It was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1976. The formation consists of two contrasting series of layers from the Columbia River Basalt Group. The layers are separated by an unconformity and provide an unobstructed view of this type of geologic phenomenon.

The South Kaibab Trail is a hiking trail in Grand Canyon National Park, located in the U.S. state of Arizona. It’s a great trail for beginners and those looking to experience the canyon without too much of a commitment. The trail begins at the south rim of the Grand Canyon and leads to the Colorado River, the South Kaibab Trail follows a ridge out to Skeleton Point allowing for 360-degree views of the canyon.

Split Butte, located in Idaho, is a distinct geological formation characterized by its unique appearance, often featuring a split or cleft along its structure, giving it its name.

Steamboat Rock is a large rock formation in Moffat County, Colorado. It is located on the banks of the Colorado River and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and picnicking. The rock gets its name from its resemblance to a steamboat, and it is one of the largest such formations in the state. The area around Steamboat Rock is rich in geological history, and the rock itself is thought to be about 1.6 billion years old. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Table Rock, located in Ada County, Idaho, is a prominent natural landmark and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers. It's characterized by a mesa-like formation overlooking the city of Boise and the surrounding area.

Teter Rock, located in the Flint Hills of Kansas, is a prominent geological formation and local landmark that holds historical and cultural significance for the surrounding area. Perched atop a hill overlooking the rolling prairie landscape, Teter Rock is a massive limestone boulder with a distinctive shape, resembling a natural pedestal or throne.

Thunder Rocks, located in Cattaraugus, New York, is a unique geological formation that features an array of intriguing shapes and structures. Carved into a hillside, the rocks range in size from tiny pebbles to large boulders, and are composed of a variety of minerals including quartz, mica, feldspar, and garnet. The rocks were formed more than 300 million years ago during a period of intense tectonic activity, and are believed to have been created by thunderbolts from the gods.