Roadside Geology of Idaho

Roadside Geology Series #12

by David D. Alt, Donald W. Hyndman

Few states pack so many different rocks into such a small area as Idaho. The ancient sedimentary formations of northern Idaho, the Idaho batholith in the central part of the state, the continental hot spot track and newly discovered meteorite impact crater of the volcanic Snake River Plain, and the Active faults of the Basin and Range province are all chapters in an exciting geologic story.
Both authors know the rocks of Idaho well through many years of active research and they related the story with authority, verve, and their usual style. Roadside Geology of Idaho is a book for laymen to enjoy and for geologists to use.

Genres: Science, Geology, Nonfiction, Travel, History, Reference

393 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1989

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

[Drew Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book really opened my eyes to the uniqueness and underlying beauty of Idaho. It serves well as a quick intro to some basic understanding of geology and then goes right into specific local features with a focus on roadway paths. I'm not sure as to the veracity of all of the information contained as there is mention of an impact event in eastern Oregon that I have been told by those in the know is very unlikely to have occurred. So yeah, fascinating stuff but as always there is always something new!

[Ariel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pick this up as another "guide of interest" for our upcoming move to Idaho. I plan on picking up the one on Oregon as well, since I see us spending a great deal of time on the geologically-fascinating Columbia River Gorge highway (I-84) between Portland and Boise. Not to mention in Eastern Oregon.

[Micheal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alt&Hyndman have always made the best geology reference books, and this is no exception. I've lived in Idaho all my life and was still surprised by some of the information contained herein.

[Christina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the most riveting read, but remarkable accessible. All those buttes in Idaho? Volcanoes. 'Cause the earth's crust is stretching. Who knew?

[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!