Slumgullion Earthflow facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Slumgullion Earthflow |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Location | Hinsdale County, Colorado, United States |
| Nearest city | Lake City, Colorado |
| Designated: | 1983 |
The Slumgullion Earthflow is a very slow-moving landslide in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. It is located in Hinsdale County. Since 1983, it has been recognized as a National Natural Landmark. This means it's a special place because of its unique natural features. It is also a Colorado Natural Area and an Area of Critical Environmental Concern.
Contents
What is the Slumgullion Earthflow?
An earthflow is a type of mass wasting. This is a fancy term for when large amounts of earth material, like soil and rocks, move downhill. The Slumgullion Earthflow is a huge mass of earth. It is about 4 miles (6.4 km) long and 2,000 feet (610 meters) wide.
This amazing natural feature is located a few miles southeast of Lake City. The landmark covers about 1,291 acres (522 hectares). It is managed by the US Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.
How the Earthflow Created Lake San Cristobal
About 700 years ago, the first part of the Slumgullion Earthflow slowly moved down the valley. As it crawled, it blocked the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River. This blockage acted like a natural dam. Because of this dam, a beautiful lake formed, which we now know as Lake San Cristobal.
The Moving Earthflow Today
What makes the Slumgullion Earthflow even more special is that part of it is still moving! A second part of the earthflow has been moving continuously for about 300 years. This section moves over older, stable rock. It creeps along at a rate of about 7 meters (23 feet) each year. That's about the length of a school bus every year!
Wildlife and the Earthflow Area
The area around the Slumgullion Earthflow is home to many animals. It provides a natural habitat for wildlife. You might spot animals like elk and deer living here.
Visiting the Slumgullion Earthflow
The Slumgullion Earthflow is easy to see. Colorado Highway 149 crosses right over it. This highway is the main road in the area. It connects Lake City, Colorado with Creede. Driving along this road gives you a great view of this incredible natural landmark.
