Petrified Forest National Park has reopened, along with Painted Desert Visitor Center and Rainbow Forest Museum. There are no limitations on access to most of the park attractions and established trails.
Unfortunately, the remainder of the Field Institute events have been canceled as we rework the guided hiking trips and workshops to implement necessary safety measures. Our hope is to be able to bring these workshops and more back next season in a way that protects participants and instructors.
- This event has passed.
Geology of the Painted Desert, Blue Mesa Area
October 16, 2015 @ 10:00 am - 2:30 pm
Instructor: Wayne Ranney
Bands of blue, purple, white and gray, sculpted by natural erosion, form the compelling backdrop of this informative hike. Older than the rolling red hills of the North Painted Desert, the stories of life and evolution contained in the Blue Mesa member of the Chinle Formation are only now being uncovered and interpreted.
Find out what these stratified hills of deposits are telling us about life, past and present. Learn how the region has changed from a sub-tropical wetland to the arid desert under foot. What colossal energies left these deposits and why are they so vastly different? What eras of life are found in each of these “time bands”?
Schedule
Meeting time: 10:00 AM
Class will be over by 2:00–2:30 PM
Cost:
- $119 – Non-Member
- $100 – Member
Registration Form
Class Notes
A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended as there is no shade in this area. Wear sturdy shoes on the hike for good traction and carry at least a liter/quart of water and some snacks and/or lunch.