Oct 13, 2017 · A rare geologic phenomenon unique to Colorado, iron fens are formed when mineral rich groundwater bubbles up from mountain springs and forms colorful ledges and terraces composed of limonite (the earth pigment used to create ochre dyes).

Mar 22, 2025 · Explore this 2.5-mile out-and-back trail near Guanella Pass, Colorado. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 20 min to complete. This trail is great for camping and hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are May through September.

Iron is important in phosphorus cycling within fens. Iron can bind to high levels of inorganic phosphate within the fen, leading to a toxic environment and inhibition of plant growth. [24] In iron-rich fens, the area can become vulnerable to acidification, excess nitrogen and potassium, and low water levels. [27]

Jul 16, 2021 · The Geneva Creek Iron Fens are an amazing natural wonder. The iron fens are an utterly unique feature only found in Colorado. It has an other-worldly feel and is relatively unknown to Front Range hikers. The fens are hidden away in Geneva Basin at the end of a …

Geneva Creek Iron Fens. This interesting geological area is registered as a Colorado State Natural Area with large areas of peat-forming wetlands quite reddish in color due to the iron in the ground water draining from surrounding calcareous rocks.

The Geneva Creek Iron Fens Hike is a unique trail through the Colorado Wilderness. The wetlands at the top of the trail have a reddish mars-like appearance due to the iron in the water that streams down from the calcareous rocks. Hike, …

Jan 3, 2025 · Iron fens, however, are much more unique, and develop due to high levels of iron in the water, which precipitates out to form the terraced structure seen here. Iron fens are also extremely fragile, thus we were careful to step only on the dirt and gravel, and not in …

Iron fens (pH as low as 3.0) are found in the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado associated with geologic sources of acid produced from water passing through highly mineralized outcrops of iron pyrite, which oxidizes to form sulfuric acid.

The Geneva Creek Iron Fens are a unique ecological feature of the central Rocky Mountains. Formed by the interaction of groundwater with iron-rich rocks, the high iron content gives the fens its distinctive red color. The fens are home to a diverse array of plants and animals.

Aug 19, 2024 · Iron fen begins with a series of springs flowing over highly fractured, highly mineralized bedrock rich in pyrites producing extremely acidic (pH3), mineral-rich water. Plan for a full day trip, maybe returning as late as 6pm.