5 Geological Formations to Explore in United States

Largest valley in the Ruby Mountains. Approximately 12 miles (19 km) in length, it was extensively sculpted by glaciers in previous ice ages.

The Leon Sinks Geological Area is a sinkhole-ridden wilderness riddled with fascinating features. The park’s natural wonders are the result of millions of years of erosion and deposition, culminating in an array of peninsular landscape formations including sinks, hardwood swamps, long-leaf pines and rivers. The trails take visitors through swamps, along ancient rivers, over cliffs and past centuries-old limestone rocks.

It is about 15 miles (24 km) west of Las Vegas, and is easily seen from the Las Vegas Strip. More than two million people visit the area each year. The conservation area showcases a set of large red rock formations: a set of sandstone peaks and walls called the Keystone Thrust. The walls are up to 3,000 feet (910 m) high, making them a popular hiking and rock climbing destination. The highest point is La Madre Mountain, at 8,154 feet (2,485 m).

A group of tar pits from where asphalt has seeped up from the ground for tens of thousands of years. Over many centuries, the tar preserved the bones of trapped animals. The Museum is dedicated to researching the tar pits and displaying specimens from the animals that died there.

The state park derives its name from red sandstone formations, the Aztec Sandstone, which formed from shifting sand dunes 150 million years ago. These features, which are the centerpiece of the park's attractions, often appear to be on fire when reflecting the sun's rays.