Description
The landscapes of the west-facing Sandia Mountain front include landforms such as alluvial fans, stream terraces, pediments, core stone-dominated hillslopes, ephemeral streams and different soil types. Their genesis and evolution reflect the geologic evolution of the Rio Grande Rift, one of the world’s deepest continental rifts, and secondly, global climate changes. Les McFadden leads the group on a moderately strenuous guided hike and discusses the landscape features on selected trails in the Elena Gallegos Open Space. Note: This is a 2.5-mile, moderate paced walk with variable elevation changes and intermittent stops for sharing information. There is limited shade. Wear sturdy boots, a broadbrimmed hat, sunscreen, and bring water. There is a $1 parking fee. Limited enrollment.
Les McFadden is a professor emeritus in the UNM Earth & Planetary Sciences (E&PS) Department. He received an MS & PhD in geosciences from the University of Arizona and a BA in anthropology from Stanford. He served as chair of the E&PS Department. He has received the Kirk Bryan Award for Excellence.