New research reveals origins of Denali Fault beneath North America's highest mountain

New research reveals that the Denali Fault, which created North America's highest mountain, was once a site where tectonic plates converged. Between 72 and 56 million years ago, the Wrangellia Composite Terrane collided with North America. Geoscientist Sean Regan studied three sections of the fault across 620 miles. His findings confirm that these areas formed simultaneously under similar conditions, supporting earlier theories about their shared history. The study highlights a phenomenon called inverted metamorphism, where deeper rocks are found above shallower ones due to tectonic forces. This research enhances understanding of how distant land masses became part of the North American plate.