Clarno Unit

While staying at the Wilson Ranches B&B near Fossil, Oregon, a few years ago, we visited the very interesting and wide-spread units of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument.

After checking in at the B&B on the first day of our stay, we drove to the Clarno Unit.

Palisades 

The most interesting features of the Unit are the palisades (high cliffs) which are the remains of ancient mudflows called lahars. Over time, the mud, silt, soil, and rocks of these lahars, along with wood, nuts, seeds, and leaves from the forest floor, were cemented together by silica. This combination left a solid cliff made up of sand, silt, and clay that encased the jumbled remains of a forest.

It is very unique. Several short trails were in the area. They showcased the palisades, passed by a variety of fossilized leafs and branches, and led to a natural arch.