Creation of the Teton Landscape: The Geologic Story of Grand Teton National Park

View west toward Grand Teton on skyline. Hedrick’s Pond surrounded by “knob and kettle” topography is in foreground, tree-covered Burned Ridge moraine is in middle distance, and extending from it to foot of mountains is gray flat treeless glacial outwash plain. National Park Service photo by W. E. Dilley.
View west up Cascade Canyon, with north face of Mt. Owen in center. National Park Service photo by H. D. Pownall.
To Fritiof M. Fryxell, geologist, teacher, writer, mountaineer, and the first ranger-naturalist in Grand Teton National Park.
All who love and strive to understand the Teton landscape follow in his footsteps.
By J. D. LOVE AND JOHN C. REED, JR. U.S. Geological Survey
Library of Congress Catalogue Card No. : 68-20628 ISBN O-931895-08-1
1st Edition 1968
1st Revised Edition 1971
Reprinted 1979 Reprinted 1984 Reprinted 1989
Grand Teton Natural History Association Moose, Wyoming 83012
Geology is the science of the Earth—the study of the forces, processes, and past life that not only shape our land but influence our daily lives and our Nation’s welfare. This booklet, prepared by two members of the U.S. Geological Survey, discusses how geologic phenomena are responsible for the magnificent scenery of the Teton region.
Recognition of the complex geologic history of our Earth is vital to the enjoyment and appreciation of beautiful landscapes and other natural wonders, to the planning of our cities and highway systems, to the wise use of our water supplies, to the study of earthquake and landslide areas, to the never-ending search for new mineral deposits, and to the conservation and development of our known natural resources. Who can say, in the long run, which of the many uses of this knowledge is the most compelling reason to seek an understanding of the Earth?