Smoky Hill Chalk Member, Paleontological formation in Western Kansas and Colorado, United States.
Description
The Smoky Hill Chalk Member is a soft chalk formation spanning multiple states with layered deposits of marine origin. These beds contain bentonite, jarosite, pyrite, and chert mixed throughout the chalk, creating a complex geological structure.
History
During the Late Cretaceous period, roughly 80 million years ago, a vast sea covered this entire region. The chalk layers accumulated gradually as shells and skeletal material settled on the seafloor.
Culture
The formations attract paleontologists and fossil enthusiasts who conduct field research and document findings. Important specimen collections housed in museums worldwide have been built from discoveries made here.
Practical
Visitors can access the formations at Monument Rocks and Castle Rock to examine the chalk cliffs up close. These public sites offer clear views of the geological layers and allow visitors to walk among the rock formations.
Did you know?
One of the most remarkable fossils is a Xiphactinus skeleton that contains another fish, Gillicus arcuatus, within its body. This specimen offers a rare glimpse of predator-prey interaction preserved from millions of years ago.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Colorado).
Monument Rocks
15.7 km
Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
0 m
Lake Scott State Park
14.3 km
Cottonwood Ranch
90.6 km
English Lutheran Church
30.3 km
El Quartelejo Ruins
14.1 km
Mary Seaman Ennis House
90 km
Grainfield Opera House
53.8 km
Oakley High School Stadium
37.4 km
Pond Creek Station
56.8 km
Goodland City Library
90 km
Thomas County Courthouse
66.6 km
Beamer Barn
38.6 km
George Washington Carver Homestead Site
77.5 km
Greeley County Courthouse
79.3 km
Clark–Robidoux House
57.9 km
Lane County Community High School
55.1 km
Shafer Barn
78.7 km
Lipp Barn
76.2 km
Alexander & Anna Schwartz Farm
70.3 km
William B. and Julia Washington House
50.9 km
Oxley Barn
69.7 km
Old Logan County Courthouse
23.9 km
Bungalow Historic District
92.5 km
Collyer Downtown Historic District
76.1 km
Fick Fossil and History Museum
36.9 km
World's Largest Easel
88.9 km
Giant van Gogh Painting
88.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes