Red Hills (Kansas) facts for kids
The Red Hills, also called the Gypsum Hills, are a unique land region in southern Kansas. Most of these rolling hills are in Clark, Comanche, and Barber counties. Many people think the Great Plains are completely flat, but this area is very different. It features bright red soil, steep little canyons, and beautiful high overlooks.
How Did the Red Hills Form?
Long ago, during the ancient Permian Period, this land was part of the giant supercontinent called Pangaea. A huge closed basin covered the dry area. Water flooded the basin and created temporary desert lakes called playas.
Over many years, these shallow waters dried up in the hot sun. As they dried, they left behind layers of lake mud and mineral crusts called evaporites. These crusts became thick layers of a white mineral called gypsum.
The rocks and soil also hold a lot of iron. When this iron met air and water, it went through oxidation, which is the same process that makes metal rust. This rusting turned the ancient red bed deposits into a rich, glowing red color.
Cool Geology and High Peaks
Water continues to change the landscape today. Gypsum dissolves easily when rain touches it. When underground gypsum layers wash away, the ground above collapses into deep holes called sinkholes. Two famous sinkholes here are Little Basin and the giant Big Basin.
Visitors can see amazing scenic views across the colorful plains and canyons. Clark County is home to several high points:
- Mount Nebo, rising to 2,441 feet (744 m) high
- Mount Jesus, reaching 2,340 feet (710 m)
- Mount Lookout, standing at 2,320 feet (710 m)
See also
