Roadside Geology of Montana

Roadside Geology Series #6

by David D. Alt, Donald W. Hyndman

Written with the non-geologist traveler in mind, this book describes the geology of Montana. It follows the highways descrbing the geologic features found along the most-traveled, major roadways. From the mystery of Glacial Lake Missoula to the mountains of Glacier National Park to the oil fields of Eastern Montana, curious travelers will learn about the geology of the Treasure State.

Genres: Geology, Nonfiction, Science, Travel, Reference, Nature, Field Guides

427 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1986

About the author

David Alt was an American geologist, teacher, writer, storyteller and author. He was the author of more than thirty books, including several titles in the Roadside Geology series published by Mountain Press.

He earned his Ph.D. in 1961 from the University of Texas, and joined the Department of Geology at The University of Montana in Missoula, Montana in 1965. He became professor Emeritus at The University of Montana in 2002. He died on April 26, 2015, in Missoula.

Reviews

[Sarah Ehinger · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you have ever wondered about the landscape that you are driving through and what made it that way, the Roadside Geology series is for you. If you plan on traveling in the state it provides a great highway specific analysis of the roadside features you are passing through. This book is really designed for a casual, broken up, read as you go format rather than a sit down and read from cover to cover. You can do it that way, but it would be way more fun to park in the area and see first hand what the book is describing.

[Larissa Root · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, a writer who makes the wonders of geology accessible. Enjoyed learning about Montana geology. Kayaked the Yellowstone and found exactly the rocks they describe such as petrified wood and Montana agate!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful for any rockhound.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great way to experience any state, even on just a road trip through. Sites are reference by mile markers of Interstates, Highways, county roads, and marked trails. Highly recommend for any state!