steepwalled

Steepwalled is an adjective used in geography and geomorphology to describe landforms that have steep, near-vertical, or high-relief walls. The term is descriptive and not a formal geologic category; it is commonly applied to canyons, gorges, escarpments, and other relief features where the sides rise sharply from the floor. Steep walls are typically the result of differential erosion, tectonic uplift, or volcanic processes that expose resistant rock or create abrupt breaks in slope.

Characteristics: Features described as steepwalled usually exhibit high relief relative to their floors, vertical or near-vertical cliff faces, and exposed stratigraphy. Wall steepness can vary along the feature, with sections that appear buttressed or fractured, talus at the base, and plateau-like benches at higher levels. Climate and weathering influence wall stability and color, contributing to the overall appearance of the feature.

Formation: Erosion by rivers or glaciers, uplift of land, and subsequent incision carve steep walls. Harder rock layers or specific joint patterns can focus erosion into prominent walls between wider floors. Over time, mass wasting and sediment transport can alter wall profiles and stability.

Usage and examples: The term appears in field guides and mapping to convey dramatic geomorphology, not as a defined class. It can describe desert canyons, alpine gorges, or escarpments in various regions and is often used to aid navigation or hazard assessment in rugged terrain.

See also: Canyon, Gorge, Escarpment, Cliff, Butte, Mesa, Monocline.