The Brothers Fault Zone: High Lava Plains and The John Day Country

The Brothers Fault Zone, located in the High Lava Plains of The John Day Country, is a mesmerizing geological feature that attracts adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. This expansive zone is not just a playground for the adventurous but also a testament to the stunning power and beauty of natural processes. In this article, we will delve into the wonders of The Brothers Fault Zone, exploring its history, geological significance, and the exciting activities it offers to visitors.

History and Formation

The Brothers Fault Zone stretches for nearly 160 kilometers, encompassing parts of Oregon and Washington. It is named after the scenic mountain range that dominates the landscape, providing a picturesque backdrop to the rugged terrain. The fault zone was formed millions of years ago due to intense tectonic activity in the region, resulting in the uplifting and faulting of the Earth's crust.

Central Oregon Geology: The Brothers Fault Zone, High Lava Plains, & the John Day Country

by William Szary(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	121242 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	263 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Today, the Brothers Fault Zone is characterized by deep canyons, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking volcanic formations. The powerful forces that shaped this unique landscape have left behind a rich tapestry of geological wonders for visitors to explore.

Geological Significance

The Brothers Fault Zone is a treasure trove of geological wonders. The diverse range of volcanic features found within this area highlights the complex volcanic history of the region. From ancient lava flows and cinder cones to maar craters and obsidian cliffs, there is something to pique the interest of every geology enthusiast.

One of the standout features of the Brothers Fault Zone is the abundance of high-quality obsidian, a natural glass formed by the rapid cooling of lava. This obsidian was historically used by indigenous tribes for the creation of tools and weapons, making the zone an important archaeological site as well.

Activities and Exploration

For adventurers and thrill-seekers, the Brothers Fault Zone offers a wide array of exciting activities. Hiking enthusiasts can traverse the various trails that wind through the rugged terrain, providing awe-inspiring views at every turn. The immersive experience of hiking along the fault zone allows visitors to truly appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape.

Rock climbing is another popular activity in the area, with the vertical cliffs and unique rock formations providing the perfect challenge for climbers of all skill levels. The Brothers Fault Zone offers countless opportunities for climbers to test their abilities and enjoy the breathtaking vistas from atop.

Furthermore, camping in the John Day Country is an experience like no other. Pitching a tent amidst the natural beauty of the fault zone allows visitors to immerse themselves in the wild and unwind under the star-studded sky after a day of exploration.

The Brothers Fault Zone in the High Lava Plains of The John Day Country is a testament to the awe-inspiring power of geological forces. Its unique features, rich history, and myriad of recreational activities make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're hiking through the towering canyons, climbing the rocky cliffs, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, the Brothers Fault Zone will leave you in awe of the Earth's remarkable creation.

So, pack your bags and head to The John Day Country to witness the enchanting beauty of the Brothers Fault Zone. Embark on an unforgettable journey through time and discover the wonders that await you in this remarkable geological marvel.

Recommended Reads:

• Volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest: Exploring the Ring of Fire
• The Painted Hills: Oregon's Strikingly Colorful Natural Wonder

Central Oregon Geology: The Brothers Fault Zone, High Lava Plains, & the John Day Country

by William Szary(Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	121242 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	263 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Central Oregon consists of the Brothers Fault Zone which separates the Northwest Basin & Range from the High Lava Plains to the north. The High Lava Plains lies south of John Day Country. This book attempts to compile geological features and history of the geomorphic provinces that compose Central Oregon.Chapter 1 presents an to the Brothers Fault Zone. Chapter 2 presents the High Lava Plains characteristic features from physiography to geological overview and settings including Pleistocene lakes, the Harney Basin, and potential geothermal resources. Chapter 3 addresses bimodal volcanism of the High Lava Plains. Chapter 4 presents geological features of the High Lava Plains. Chapter 5 presents an to John Day Country offering a road log for 19 sites from Spray through Kimberly, Monument, Hamilton, Long Creek, Fox Valley, and the Strawberry Range. Chapter 6 begins with the geologic framework of the Clarno Unit in the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument. This chapter features the geologic setting, physiography, and litho-stratigraphic units of the Clarno Formation and John Day Formation. The chapter also presents structural geology, petrology, and depositional settings in both formations. Chapter 7 discusses the geology of the Upper John Day Formation Beds and members, offering regional correlative significance of the upper units. Chapter 8 begins the discussion of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument with an overview and discussion of Paleogene and Neogene global climate change. Both Clarno and John Day formations are summarized. An to paleo-sols is included for the major formations. Geological features are presented at the end of the chapter. Chapter 9 summarizes the geological history of the national monument focusing on global greenhouse to icehouse events in the Tertiary epochs. Chapter 10 provides a field tour of the national monument and surrounding region focusing on the Crooked River and Wildcat Mountain calderas. Chapter 11 closes the book with the continuation of the field trip from the Ochoco Summit eastward to the Painted Hills and Sheep Rock Units.