hogback, sharp-crested ridge with steep slopes on both sides,
formed by the erosion of steeply tilted rock layers. Hogbacks
are commonly formed along the eroded flanks of large, tightly
folded anticlines and synclines (see fold). Impressive hogbacks
are seen in the foothills east of the Front Range of the Rocky
Mts. in Colorado, where they are formed by the vertical or
steeply dipping layers of Dakota sandstone. This region forms
the intake area for the Dakota artesian system. Hogbacks are
also common in the Black Hills of South Dakota where sedimentary
rocks were uplifted by the intrusion of Black Hills granite. See
cuesta. More on hogback from Fact Monster: See more Encyclopedia
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