Geology of the Spanish Peaks
Join us in welcoming Brian Penn at the amphitheater. Brian will talk about the geology of south-central Colorado and the Spanish Peaks region.
Geology of the Spanish Peaks
The Spanish Peaks are located in south-central Colorado, 30 miles northwest of Trinidad, Colorado. Physiographically, the two peaks (West Spanish Peak, 4152 m; East Spanish Peak, 3873 m.) lie on the upland portion of the far western edge of the Great Plains. Numerous intrusive features, including stocks, dikes, sills, laccoliths, plugs, and sole injections, dominate the landscape. The well-developed and exposed systems of radial dikes of the Spanish Peaks region are often cited in geologic textbooks. Learn about how the Spanish Peaks were formed ten million years ago. We'll also find out how up to 500 dikes extend out from West Spanish Peak like spokes on a wheel. Some of the dikes in the area are 20 km (12.5 miles) long.
All events are free to the public. Vehicles are required to have a Colorado state parks pass.
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