Glacier NP: Sedimentary Rock Stratification Illustrated Seen Above Avalanche Lake

Most of the rock in Glacier NP is sedimentary, laid down in increments measured by tiny factions of an inch per year at the bottom of an ancient sea. It is hard to describe, and most photos don't do justice to, the depth of the layers and the geologic forces at work here that continue to lift and tip the rock.

This set of tipped shelves illustrates the extreme effects of geologic forces. Seen here is melt water from Sperry Glacier above Avalanche Lake.