1. Sandstone: Sandstone is the most common type of rock found in Arches and Canyonlands. It is a sedimentary rock formed from the accumulation and cementation of sand grains. The Navajo Sandstone, which forms the majority of the arches in Arches National Park, is a fine-grained, red-orange sandstone that is resistant to erosion.
2. Limestone: Limestone is another sedimentary rock found in these parks. It is formed from the accumulation and cementation of calcium carbonate, often from the remains of marine organisms such as corals and shellfish. Limestone is typically light-colored and relatively soft compared to other rocks in the area.
3. Dolomite: Dolomite is a sedimentary rock similar to limestone but contains a higher percentage of magnesium carbonate. It is often found interbedded with limestone and is more resistant to erosion.
4. Shale: Shale is a fine-grained sedimentary rock formed from the compaction of mud and clay. It is relatively soft and easily eroded, and it often forms the softer slopes and valleys in the parks.
5. Conglomerate: Conglomerate is a sedimentary rock formed from the cementation of gravel and pebbles. It is not as common as the other types of rocks in Arches and Canyonlands but can be found in some areas.
6. Igneous rocks: Igneous rocks are formed from the cooling and solidification of molten magma. They are relatively rare in Arches and Canyonlands, but some small igneous intrusions, such as the La Sal Mountains in Canyonlands National Park, can be found.