Chalk Pyramids

During the Cretaceous Period of geologic history, a expansive sea covered the High Plains; this is sometimes referred to as the Late Cretaceous Sea. Archaelogists have found a wealth of information concerning both Native Americas but also prehistoric plant and animal life.

The chalk pyramids are located approximately mid-way between a north-south line from Oakley to Dodge City, Kansas. Most state maps show the site. There was no visitor's center in 1991, but you can pick up a brochure from the the Dodge City Chamber of Commerce or state tourism office, explaining the geologic significance of the site. The location shows eolian (wind) erosion processes very well and offer some great opportunities to enhance photography.

These photos show the huge height of the structures. Notice the vehicles parked on the left photo. Imagine how much higher the land elevation was thousands of years ago. While the Arkansas River to the south helped shape the High Plains (fluvial erosion), eolian processes played a more prominent role. The visible strata (layers) show different chemical makeup as well as a rough timeline to help scientists understand historical events. Further west, mesas (tableland) occupies significant areas. You can think of these photos are showing mesas, relative to the view of the landscape. Chalk Pyramid

In relative terms, this photo would show a butte, final remnant of higher land elevation.

Send comments to jalexand@alumni.ou.edu.

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Last Update: 23 August 2004