Types of Rock Formations

by Corina Fiore

Overview

Rock formations are created through tectonic activity and weathering of rocks. Their structure adds character to the landscape, often creating dynamic vistas.
Mesas and Buttes

Mesas and buttes are hills that have flat tops. The difference between a mesa and a butte is the surface area. A mesa has a surface area of less than 10 square km. A butte has a surface area of 1 square km or less. These formations are often found in arid regions. The top of the mesa or butte is weather resistant and is often formed from volcanic lava flows.

Mesa

Escarpments

Escarpments are a break in slope separating one flat surface from another. Escarpments can resemble large steps. Escarpments can be formed from movement along a fault or through erosion. Niagara Falls is an example of an escarpment.

Escarpment
Canyon

A canyon is a deep valley that has been carved out by hydraulic action. Canyons may be dry or may have a river running through them.

Canyon
Stack

A stack is a rock column or horizontal sedimentary rock formed along the coastline. The steep column has been eroded by the sea crashing against the headland.

Stack
Spires and Hoodoos

Spires and hoodoos are columns of rocks caused by ice wedging and acidic rain. Spires are of uniform thickness, creating large, thin columns of rock. Hoodoos are of variable thickness, creating interestingly shaped columns that are often compared to totem poles.

Hoodoo