Crack in the Ground facts for kids

Crack in the Ground

Crack in the Ground is a very long and deep crack in the earth. It is found in Central Oregon, United States. This amazing natural feature is about 2 miles (3.2 km) long. In some places, it goes nearly 30 feet (9 meters) deep into the ground.

This giant crack formed a very long time ago. Scientists believe it appeared between 700,000 and 12,000 years ago. It is a special type of crack called a volcanic fissure. This means it was created by forces linked to volcanoes.

What is Crack in the Ground?

Crack in the Ground is not a canyon or a riverbed. It is a long, narrow split in the earth's surface. Imagine a giant crack appearing in a sidewalk, but much, much bigger! It is a unique place to visit and explore.

How Did This Giant Crack Form?

This crack formed because of ancient volcanic activity. Long ago, lava flowed from an area called the Four Craters Lava Field. As the lava erupted, the ground underneath it began to sink a little. This sinking created a wide, shallow valley.

Crack in the Ground sits on the western edge of this sunken area. The crack itself is a "tension fracture." This means the ground was pulled apart, causing it to split. It happened as newer lava flows settled over older rock layers. This created a weak spot that eventually cracked open.

Where Can You Find It?

Crack in the Ground is located in the southwest part of the Four Craters Lava Field. This area is known for its interesting volcanic landscapes. It is part of the beautiful natural scenery of Oregon.

Exploring Crack in the Ground

This natural wonder is open for visitors to explore. Hikers can walk along the main crack. They can also discover smaller cracks that branch off from it. It's like walking through a giant maze made by nature! It's a great place to learn about geology and see how powerful Earth's forces can be.