GEOL 1040: Geology of Colorado

Colorado National Monument. Photo Courtesy of Paul Weimer.

Mesa Verde. Photo Courtesy of Paul Weimer.

Great Sand Dunes National Park. Photo Courtesy of Paul Weimer.

Maroon Bells. Photo Courtesy of Paul Weimer.

Boulder Flatirons. Photo Courtesy of Paul Weimer.

Harpers Corner. Photo Courtesy of Paul Weimer.

39 Mile Volcanic Field, 34 Million Years Ago. Photo Courtesy of Paul Weimer.

Themes

How did Colorado's current and ancient landscape form?
How do rocks reveal those ancient landscapes?
What type of life has inhabited Colorado over geologic time?
In what ways has the state's geologic history influenced its past and current economy, and how might it influence its future?

Course Description

Reviews the geologic evolution and history of Colorado. It first develops the basic concepts needed to interpret the geology and then systematically shows how the state evolved through geologic time. Designed for those who enjoy understanding the beauty and splendor of Colorado.