Full Title: FT26CN410. Friable Fins, Fizzy Water, Fragile Fossils, and Fine Gold: A Geologic Sampler of the Pikes Peak Region
Price: US$160 for non-members; US$130 for professional members; US$80 for student members; US$115 for early career professional members
Leader(s): Barbara EchoHawk; Uwe Richard Kackstaetter
Endorser(s): Colorado Scientific Society; GSA Hydrogeology Division; Paleontological Society (PS); Western Interior Paleontological Society (WIPS); Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration (SME)
Industry Track(s): Economic Geology; Hydrogeology and Environmental Geology
CEUs: 0.95
Date(s): Sat., 10 Oct. 2026
Departing Location: Colorado Convention Center, Denver, Colorado, USA
Start Time: 7:30 a.m.
End Time: 5 p.m.
Description: Join us for an unforgettable one-day field trip through the breathtaking Pikes Peak region. This whirlwind tour visits four iconic geologic sites, each with its own fascinating story.
Our first stop is the majestic Garden of the Gods, where striking vertical fins of orange and cream sandstone tower overhead. Next, we visit the charming town of Manitou Springs and its eight cold springs that bubble to the surface with effervescent, potable mineral waters. Our final stop is the historic Cripple Creek Mining District, where gold fever remains part of the landscape.
Geoscientists and participants of all backgrounds who are curious about the natural world are welcome on this field trip. As we explore each site, we will engage in discussions that connect local geology to broader regional and geohistorical contexts. Between stops, sweeping views of the Pikes Peak massif and the southern Front Range provide additional inspiration for geological exploration.
Guided by participant interests, discussions may expand into topics such as Paleozoic stratigraphy, Laramide structure, low-temperature aqueous geochemistry, Cenozoic volcanism and climate, alkaline diatreme complexes, hydrothermal alteration, and gold telluride mineralization. Join us for a day of discovery, learning, and connection to this remarkable geologic landscape.
Considerations: Transportation will be by commercial bus, with a total trip duration of approximately 9.5 hours. About 60% of the time will be spent driving and scenic viewing, and 40% will be spent on the ground; the longest continuous drive time is approximately 2 hours. Restroom stops will be available every 1.5 to 2 hours. Water, a boxed lunch, and a snack will be provided.
Each of the four stops includes walking opportunities ranging from approximately 0.5 miles (nearly flat) to ~2 miles (~340 ft of elevation gain), though each stop can also be enjoyed with shorter walking distances. The trip will take place at increasing mountain elevations, rising from the Colorado Convention Center (~5,280 ft) to Garden of the Gods (~6,400 ft) and up to the Victor area (~10,400 ft). Please contact us with any specific questions regarding accessibility.
Cost includes ground transportation, lunch, snacks, and water.
By purchasing this item, you are buying a seat for an in-person geological field trip. This field trip is in conjunction with GSA Connects 2026. Learn more here.
For member type discounts please contact fieldtrip@geosociety.org.
Students and Early Career Professionals can apply for funding here.
Field Trips offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs). One CEU equals 10 hours of participation in an organized continuing education experience under responsible sponsorship, capable direction, and qualified instruction.
Please review these Field Safety Documents. You will be contacted to provide your consent to these forms after purchasing a field trip.
For additional information, please contact fieldtrip@geosociety.org.
Product Code: FT26CN410
Product Category: FTRIP
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