Excalibur, Rock formation in northern Arizona, United States
Excalibur is a rock formation in the Arizona desert consisting of stacked layers of sandstone and shale in varied hues. The structure displays different colored bands of stone that have been carved by wind and water erosion into distinctive ridges and slopes.
The formation originated hundreds of millions of years ago when layers of sediment accumulated on an ancient seafloor. After the waters receded, wind and water erosion gradually carved away softer materials to reveal the current shape.
Native American tribes of the region incorporated the rock formations of northern Arizona into their traditional stories and ceremonies through generations.
Visitors should bring sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water since exposure to direct sun is intense in this location. The best time to explore is during the cooler morning hours or early evening.
The rock faces contain different mineral compositions that give the stone reddish and ochre hues depending on the angle and time of day. These color variations result from iron oxides and other minerals embedded within the layers.
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