Kirtland Formation, Geological formation in San Juan Basin, New Mexico, United States.
The Kirtland Formation is a geological layered deposit in the San Juan Basin and consists of alternating bands of sandstone, shale, mudstone, and conglomerate. These strata extend upward about 594 meters (1,950 feet) and reveal the complex history of ancient river deltas and coastal environments.
The formation was named in 1916 by C.M. Bauer after the nearby Kirtland Post Office. It dates to the Late Cretaceous period, roughly 75 to 73.5 million years ago.
Scientists have discovered multiple dinosaur species within the formation, including Alamosaurus, Bistahieversor, Daspletosaurus, Pentaceratops, and Kritosaurus specimens.
Visitors can explore the formation in the San Juan Basin region, where several exposures reveal the rock layers. Best access comes during dry seasons when approaching the visible strata is more straightforward.
The Hunter Wash member at the base contains traces of ancient river systems and coastal plains from the Cretaceous. Fossils of large sauropods and horned dinosaurs have been uncovered within these layers.
Location: New Mexico
GPS coordinates: 36.70800,-108.35000
Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:58
Shiprock
43.4 km
Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness
49.5 km
Aztec Ruins National Monument
34.4 km
Salmon Ruins
28.8 km
Fruitland Formation
9.6 km
Angel Peak Scenic Area
47.2 km
Farmington Public Library
16 km
Cathedral Cliff
33.8 km
Farmington Historic Downtown Commercial District
13 km
Balcony House
51.5 km
House of Many Windows
51.4 km
Aztec Ruins Administration Building-Museum
34.2 km
San Juan River Bridge at Shiprock
31.6 km
American Hotel
33.7 km
Aztec Main Street Historic District
33.8 km
D.C. Ball House
34.7 km
Aztec Motor Company Building
33.9 km
Engleman-Thomas Building
33.5 km
Church Avenue-Lovers Lane Historic District
34.2 km
Oak Tree House
51.9 km
Sun Temple
52.1 km
Hemenway House
51 km
Sunset House
51.8 km
New Fire House
52.2 km
Aztec Museum
34.2 km
Aztec Public Library
33.7 km
Cliff Canyon
50.3 km
Sun Point View
51.8 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover 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