March 7, 2019 – A new program in the park this year is a guided walk along the Buttermilk Bend Trail that points out the interesting geology of the South Yuba River State Park. Meet at South Yuba River State Park’s north Parking Lot. Wear weather appropriate clothing and bring an interest in learning about the rock types along the Buttermilk Bend Trail and a little bit about the complex geologic history of the area.
Like a surgeon, the South Yuba River has cut an incision across the Sierra Foothills topographic surface to expose the inner anatomy of the Sierra Nevada. The 20-mile long scenic river canyon within the park provides a cross-section of the ancient oceanic-continental tectonic plate boundaries of the area during Jurassic and older times.
Prior to the walk participants will receive a brochure about the local geology as well as hear a short presentation about the four major tectonic belts (assemblage of rocks that have been folded or mixed together) present within the state park boundaries. Also discussed in the presentation will be some of the plate tectonics concepts used by geologists to interpret the complex geology of the area.
On the walking tour, you will learn about the rock types along this portion of the South Yuba River as well as observe first hand some of the geologic features associate with the area’s complex geology. The guided walking tour and short presentation are expected to last from two to two and a half hours.
Interested? Please contact Karen Synowiec or Bob Slyker for a reservation or questions at SYubaRiverGeology@gmail.com
Know & Go
What: Geology Tour of Buttermilk Bend Trail
When: Saturday, March 16 at 10 AM – Reservation Is Required
Where: Bridgeport’s North Parking Lot