How Is a V-Shaped Valley Formed?

A V-shaped valley forms through a geological process called erosional downcutting in which a strong and fast moving river or stream erodes or cuts a path through rock. A V-shaped valley may also be referred to as a river valley. The main characteristics of this valley type is that it is narrow with steep and sloped sides.

The Grand Canyon is an example of a V-shaped valley, which was formed during millions of years as the Colorado River cut a path through the Colorado Plateau. The Grand Canyon is 277 miles in length and approximately more than 1 mile in depth.

Another type of valley is a U-shaped one, which has a curved base and a broad flat floor. These types of valleys are formed from glacial erosion that occurred in mountainous regions.

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