Dakota Sandstone

photo: Dakota Sandstone at Hovenweep National Monument
Dakota Sandstone at Hovenweep National Monument
NPS Photo by Neal Herbert
 

This layer does not occur in Canyonlands.

Deposited
Early- to mid-Cretaceous (64 to 144 million years ago)

Depositional Environment
Varid from alluvial fans in the south to more marine environments in the north (Book Cliffs).

Appearance
Brown, cross-bedded sandstone

Example
Visible in some areas of Arches National Park. Forms the mesa tops along Highway 666 east of Monticello and around Hovenweep National Monument.

Did You Know?

Collared Lizard

Lizards, including the colorful collared lizard, are one of the most frequently seen animals in Canyonlands. When not chasing flies or basking in the sun, they are often seen doing what appears to be push-ups. Scientists believe this and other behaviors signal dominance and facilitate courtship.