The Triassic in Massachusetts, US

Paleontology and geology

Sedimentary rocks from the Triassic are found in the Connecticut River Valley in the central part of the state. These rocks were originally sediments deposited in alluvial fans, braided streams, and lakes that filled rift valleys. They are interbedded with volcanic rocks that formed as lavas rose through cracks in the crust as the supercontinent of Pangea pulled apart. Trace fossils of invertebrates, dinosaur tracks, and fossils plants are found within these sediments.