Shiprock

Shiprock is a monadnock rising nearly 1,583 feet (482.5 meters) above the high-desert plain of the Navajo Nation in San Juan County, New Mexico. Its peak elevation is 7,177 feet (2,187 meters) above sea level. The rock is composed of fractured volcanic breccia and black dikes of igneous rock called minette. It is the erosional remnant of the throat of a volcano and the volcanic breccia formed in a diatreme.

Geology

Shiprock is the remnant of a volcanic plume that solidified in the subsurface and was later exposed by erosion. The rock formation is part of the Navajo Volcanic Field, which includes other volcanic features such as dikes, sills, and laccoliths. The volcanic activity that formed Shiprock occurred around 27 million years ago during the Oligocene epoch.

Cultural Significance

Shiprock is known as "Tsé Bitʼaʼí" in the Navajo language, which translates to "rock with wings" or "winged rock." It is a significant landmark and holds great spiritual importance to the Navajo people. According to Navajo legend, the rock is the remains of a giant bird that carried the Navajo from the north to their present lands.

Climbing

Shiprock is a popular destination for rock climbers, although climbing is currently prohibited by the Navajo Nation due to its cultural significance. The first recorded ascent of Shiprock was made in 1939 by a team led by David Brower and Bestor Robinson.

Location and Access

Shiprock is located in the northwestern part of New Mexico, near the town of Shiprock. The formation is visible from many miles away and is accessible via U.S. Route 491. The area around Shiprock is primarily desert terrain, with sparse vegetation and dramatic landscapes.

In Popular Culture

Shiprock has been featured in various films, television shows, and literature due to its striking appearance and cultural significance. It is often used as a symbol of the American Southwest and the Navajo Nation.

See Also

• Navajo Nation
• San Juan County, New Mexico
• Volcanic plug
• Diatreme
• Navajo Volcanic Field