Excavations in Wyoming - page 10

Hello,

The layers of sediments in the Big Horn Basin are the result of the erosion of the surrounding mountain chains. Between inclined layers, we travel westward, in the direction of the Rocky Mountains, a journey back into time.

But when we reach the first summits (300 million years old) the landscape radically changes and mainly consists of volcanic rocks. Here begins Yellowstone National Park. Etienne takes some samples of basaltic lava. At some distance, we see the first geysers, with an almost insupportable sulphurous smell. The subsoil is boiling and the magma heats the calcareous water springs. The calcareous deposits are the origin of the coloured mountain ranges. Magnificent sight for geologists.

Not far from there, herds of buffaloes are taking a peaceful break on the tableland between the mountains. They are the descendants of the buffaloes that survived Buffalo Bill.

I'll be back after my return to Belgium. See you!

Thierry