Vermilion Cliffs facts for kids
The Vermilion Cliffs are amazing colorful rock formations found in northern Arizona and southern Utah. They are like the second big "step" in a giant natural staircase called the Grand Staircase of the Colorado Plateau. These cliffs stretch for a long way, starting near Page, Arizona, and going into both Arizona and Utah.
A large part of this area is protected. In 1984, about 112,500 acres became the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness. Even more land was protected in 2000 when the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument was created. This helps keep the natural beauty and wildlife safe.
How the Cliffs Were Made
The Vermilion Cliffs are mostly made of strong, red sandstone. This rock formed from ancient silt and desert sand dunes that piled up long, long ago. Over time, these layers were glued together by natural minerals like carbonates. The bright red color comes from iron oxide, which is like rust, and other minerals, including some bluish manganese. These cliffs are part of a bigger area known as the Colorado Plateau Province, which has many high plateaus and deep canyons.
A Look Back in Time
The Vermilion Cliffs were an important landmark for early settlers traveling between Utah and Arizona in the 1800s. A famous pioneer and missionary named Jacob Hamblin explored this area. He even started a ranch at the bottom of the cliffs in a place called House Rock Valley.
Today, U.S. Highway 89A follows much of the old wagon trail that settlers used. This road goes past the cliffs through House Rock Valley and then climbs up to the Kaibab Plateau near Jacob Lake.
Many famous places are found around the Vermilion Cliffs. These include Lee's Ferry, Glen Canyon and the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and the unique rock formation known as The Wave in Coyote Buttes.
Where to See the Cliffs
You can see the reddish or vermilion-colored cliffs along U.S. Highway 89A close to Navajo Bridge. They are also visible from U.S. Highway 89 near Bitter Springs. Highway 89A runs right next to the Vermilion Cliffs for much of the way between Jacob Lake and Marble Canyon, giving you amazing views.
In the spring, especially after a good winter rain, the valley between Highway 89 and the Vermilion Cliffs becomes a beautiful sight. It gets covered with a colorful carpet of desert mallow and other spring flowers.
{{wide image|VermilionCliffsComposite5695.jpg|800px|align-cap=center|A wide view looking north from Highway 89A, showing the Vermilion Cliffs.]]
See also
In Spanish: Acantilados Vermilion para niños
