Carrizo Corridor and the Imperial Seaway

Study the late Miocene Epoch of the northern Imperial Seaway when bygone tides and associated marine life of the ancestral Sea of Cortez once held center-stage. It happened during a dynamic time of crustal extension, faulting, erupting volcanic fields, uplifting mountains and collapsing basins, followed by the introduction of the ancestral Colorado River into the northern Gulf of California during the Pliocene Epoch. Today, spectacularly exposed sedimentary and volcanic layerings with a smathering of fossil shell beaches, reefs, and oyster beds millions of years old highlight this special field trip along the western edge of the Vallecito Badlands, Coyote Mountains, and into the Yuha Buttes. We will decipher these natural-heritage sites containing unique geologic formations and paleontologic resources in Fossil Canyon, and within the Yuha Badlands. Bring adequate water, lunch, and a camera. 4WD vehicles are required.  Meet at Butterfield Ranch on Highway S-2.

"Carrizo Corridor and the Imperial Seaway" is Part One of the 4-part series:

Geology and Paleontology Discovery Series
Instructor: Paul Remeika
Discover the fascinating geology and paleontology of the Anza-Borrego region through this series of four driving tours with a retired ranger who spent close to thirty years studying and writing about the geologic history of this area!
All trips: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. 4WD required. Bring plenty of water, lunch, and camera, and be prepared for short adventure hikes along the way.
Fee for each tour: Member $35; Non-member $45

Fee for series of all four tours: Member $120; Non-member $160