Sentinel of the Plains is a photograph by Jon Burch Photography which was uploaded on August 1st, 2015.
Sentinel of the Plains
Castle Rock is a large limestone pillar in Gove County, Kansas. The formation and the nearby badlands are located in the Smoky Hills region of the... more
Title
Sentinel of the Plains
Artist
Jon Burch Photography
Medium
Photograph - Digital Capture
Description
Castle Rock is a large limestone pillar in Gove County, Kansas. The formation and the nearby badlands are located in the Smoky Hills region of the state approximately 11 miles south of I-70 near the town of Quinter.
The chalk in this geologic formation was deposited in the area by an ancient inland sea during the Cretaceous period about 65 million years ago. The formation was carved to its present shape by the weathering by wind and water. It received its name because it is said to look like a castle rising above the prairie. Weathering of the rock formation is increasing due to visitors climbing on the rocks. In 2001, following a thunderstorm, the tallest spire fell.
On January 29, 2008, Castle Rock and Monument Rocks, located approximately 31 miles to the west were jointly named as one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas. Castle Rock was a landmark on the Overland Trail.
Image copyright 2015 Jon Burch Photography
Uploaded
August 1st, 2015
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