Approximately 40 to 70 million years ago, shifting tectonic plates birthed massive rock formations across what is now the American West. Known as the Laramide orogeny, the series of seismic events produced earthquakes, the Rocky Mountains, and ultimately, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
The Laramide orogeny unearthed and built two 300-foot monoliths in what is now modern-day Morrison, Colorado, just 10 miles away from the state capital of Denver. Due to red sandstone, the mountains have a vibrant, rusty hue. The flowing water and biting wind that cut through the massive monoliths created a valley within its center—a valley that became home to the most popular outdoor live music venue in America.
