The Butte

A butte is a tall, flat-topped hill or mountain with steep sides, formed through erosion. Over time, softer rock surrounding the more resistant rock erodes away, leaving the harder caprock intact on top. This process creates a distinct, isolated landform that stands prominently above the surrounding landscape. Buttes are common in arid regions and are often admired for their striking appearance and geological significance. Essentially, a butte is a natural monument shaped by the forces of weathering and erosion, highlighting the earth’s geological history.