<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=28Bm7z_0w4ufb0800" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=28Bm7z_0w4ufb0800" width="980" height="566" ><figcaption>Kelsey Nistel</figcaption></figure>From foothills and prairies to towering mountains, sand dunes, and meadows, Colorado's topography is as diverse as can possibly be. The terrain can significantly change within a proximity of just a few miles, but that's part of what makes the Centennial State so special.Setting out on outdoor adventures is the best way to explore some of these natural wonders.Within Northern Colorado's Soapstone Natural area, visitors can get an up-close view and even walk over a unique geological formation known as the "Gangplank."Contrary to what some may think, Colorado's Gangplank has nothing to do with pirates' punishment. Rather, it's the name of a series of slanted rocks that can be seen along the Front Range.Soapstone contains the sediments shed off the relatively young Rocky Mountains that formed the High Plains. Although these were subsequently eroded to form the Platte River Valley, along the Cheyenne Divide at Soapstone they remained and formed the "Gangplank."This gentle slope begins in Larimer County and leads to the Laramie Mountains. The rock formations at Soapstone extend eastward and are found at Pawnee Buttes and in western Nebraska, forming an important regional aquifer called the Ogallala.Because of its high elevation and connection to the mountains, Soapstone Prairie Natural Area has an extraordinary ecology and forms an important wildlife corridor. This area of rolling hills, prairie grasslands, and sandy washes attracts hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders during the seasons when it's open.If you're searching for another place to check out in Colorado, plan a visit to the amazing Paint Mines.</div></body>

Mountain View, CA

NewsBreak

Walk the Gangplank at This Northern Colorado Natural Area

From foothills and prairies to towering mountains, sand dunes, and meadows, Colorado's topography is as diverse as can possibly be. The terrain can significantly change within a proximity of just a few miles, but that's part of what makes the Centennial State so special. Setting out on outdoor adventures is...