Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks
National Monument
New Mexico
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The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is a remarkable outdoor
laboratory, offering an opportunity to observe, study, and experience the
geologic processes that shape natural landscapes. The national monument is
located on the Pajarito Plateau in north-central New Mexico and ranges
from 5,570 feet to 6,760 feet above sea level. |
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The cone-shaped tent rock formations are the products of volcanic
eruptions that left pumice, ash and tuff deposits over 1,000 feet thick.
Tremendous explosions from the Jemez volcanic field spewed pyroclasts
(rock fragments), while searing hot gases blasted down slopes in an
incandescent avalanche called a “pyroclastic flow.” If visitors look
closely, they will discover small, rounded, translucent obsidian fragments
created by rapid cooling. |
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Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks
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Official
BLM website of
Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
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