1. Glass Beach
This peculiar formation was created when years of wave action transformed discarded glass bottles into smooth, rounded pebbles on Fort Bragg's Glass Beach in California, USA. The unique landscape is a result of the beach's unique geography, where the ocean waves washed over the trash and smoothed it down over time. Over 50 tons of glass were collected from the beach before its transformation began. The formation was discovered in the early 20th century and has since become a popular tourist destination. Glass Beach showcases the power of nature to transform waste into something beautiful. Its glass pebbles resemble natural river rocks, making it an unusual example of coastal erosion.
2. Rainbow Mountains (Huangshi)
Located in Yunnan Province, China, this formation appears as vibrant, rainbow-colored mountains due to the presence of oxidation and mineral deposits in the rock. The unique colors are a result of the reaction between iron oxide, water, and oxygen. Over 12,000 years ago, the region's rocks were formed from limestone deposits that held rich mineral deposits. Rainwater and groundwater percolated through the earth, carrying nutrients that contributed to the formation of these colorful mountains. Rainbow Mountains have become popular among tourists due to their breathtaking beauty.
3. Dinosaur Valley
This geological formation in Texas, USA, features impressive rock layers carved into canyons by ancient rivers. The valley spans over 20 miles and contains more than 1,500 dinosaur tracks preserved in limestone and sandstone rocks. Over 110 million years ago, rivers carved out this unique landscape that now houses an important fossil site for paleontologists to study. Dinosaur Valley is a popular destination due to its connection with prehistoric life. The park's visitor center offers educational programs on the history of dinosaurs.
4. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park
Located in Hunan Province, China, this unique forest features towering pine trees that rise like giant pillars into the sky, inspired by the fictional Wonders of Pandora from James Cameron's film Avatar (2009). Over 400 million years ago, ancient sea creatures gave rise to the rocks seen here. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is home to breathtaking scenery with over 3,000 rock pillars rising up from 4,700 feet below the forest floor. The area was popularized by its appearance in Avatar.
5. Devil's Tower
This peculiar formation in Wyoming, USA, resembles a giant, black and white monolith due to alternating layers of basalt lava flows and volcanic ash. The tower is considered sacred by the local Lakota Native American tribe. Approximately 55 million years ago, these lava flows cooled down and solidified into one large rock structure with an internal hole that became hollowed out. Scientists believe this formation has been formed over a period of several thousand years through natural geological processes.