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Canyonlands National ParkSeedling in Biological Soil Crust
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Canyonlands National Park
Carmel Formation
 

Deposited
Mid- to late-Jurassic (144 to 208 million years ago)

Depositional Environment
Shallow marine and mud-flats

Appearance
Mix of siltstone, shale and sandstone forms slopes.

Example
Some occurrence around the rim of Horseshoe Canyon makes this the youngest layer in Canyonlands. More prevalent along the Green River.

Interactive Geologic Atlas
Interactive Geologic Atlas
Flash animations manage to simplify the story of Canyonlands.
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Jurassic Journey
Jurassic Journey
Travel back in time to the shore of a Jurassic lake.
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Desert Bighorn Sheep  

Did You Know?
Desert bighorn sheep live year-round in Canyonlands. These animals make their home along the rivers, negotiating the steep, rocky talus slopes with ease. Once in danger of becoming extinct, desert bighorns are making a tentative comeback thanks to the healthy herds in Canyonlands.
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Last Updated: July 11, 2006 at 12:38 EST