Tuff Canyon

Tuff Canyon is a narrow gorge cut by Blue Creek through pale volcanic rock and darker basalt. Three platforms follow the rim, with an interpretive panel at the east overlook. It's a worthwhile short geology stop on Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive; allow about 20 minutes for the 0.5-mile rim walk out and back.

From the platforms, the pale rim rock drops toward darker basalt exposed on the floor. Each platform gives you a different angle, and together they make the canyon's depth easier to read than a single pullout view.

About 30 million years ago, ash and other debris from a nearby volcanic vent landed here while still hot. Heat and pressure welded it into tuff, with stones and even boulders caught in the walls. Blue Creek later cut down through the layers; the tuff resists erosion sideways, helping keep the gorge narrow.

The east platform has the exhibit; a short rim path connects the platforms over rock and gravel, with steps near the west end. The paved pullout fits about six vehicles. The rim is fragile, with steep drops and rockfalls, so stay at the platforms. Pets aren't allowed on park trails. The canyon is usually dry but can carry fast storm runoff; skip the canyon-floor route when storms are possible.

Try to include the pale tuff walls and the darker basalt below in the same frame. The rim railing helps show the height of the canyon without stepping off the platforms.