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Making America's Best Idea Even Better
Colorado National MonumentA view into Colorado National Monument from the Corkscrew area
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Colorado National Monument
Geologic Formations
The Colorado National Monument is located within the Canyon Lands Basin of the Colorado Plateau physiographic province (SCS 1978). Landscapes are characterized by exposures of colorful, gently dipping sediments that have been differentially eroded to form high plateaus, bold escarpments, and deep canyons. Sandstone monoliths and steep walled canyons sculpted from years of natural erosion provide scenic, educational, and scientific benefits to visitors.
 
Island monocline
Sally Bellacqua
Island monocline
 
Visit the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) site to read about Colorado National Monument's stratigraphy.
 
Stratigraphy of Colorado National Monument
climbers on Independence Monument  

Did You Know?
Each Independence Day, local climbers scale the iconic Independence Monument in Colorado National Monument and raise an American flag on top. This tradition dates back to early park promoter John Otto, whose route up Independence Monument climbers still follow.

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Last Updated: April 28, 2009 at 22:14 EST