Sandstone has been part of Colorado’s landscape for millions of years. Today, it’s one of the most requested natural stones for outdoor projects and home design. It’s strong, easy to work with, and comes in a range of natural colors. Here's what to know before choosing it for your next project.
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock made from compacted, sand-sized mineral grains. Most of those grains are quartz, but feldspar and other rock fragments show up, too. Wind and water carry the material, usually depositing it in riverbeds, beaches, or desert landscapes. Over time, these particles build up and are cemented together by minerals like silica, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide. That process gives sandstone both its strength and its signature layered look.
The grain size and layering pattern reveal what kind of environment the rock came from. Fine grains mean calm water; larger grains suggest stronger currents. They also create sandstone that is favorable in different use-cases. Fine grains create a smoother, more refined finish—great for walkways or interior accents. On the other hand, coarse grains give a rugged, natural look and work well in garden walls or rustic patios.
Finally, color changes come from the minerals locked inside—iron adds red, orange, or rusty tones. Every slab tells a story about the land—or seabed—it came from.
Colorado is abundant in sandstone, as the area used to be a large, shallow inland sea. Red Rocks Park near Morrison, Colorado National Monument near Grand Junction, and Garden of the Gods near Colorado Springs are all famous examples of sandstone formations. And the same type of stone runs beneath homes, trails, and buildings across the state, especially along the Front Range, where tectonic forces lifted the ancient sandstone seabed into formations like Boulder’s Flatirons (above).
Throughout the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, local sandstone became an architectural material. It was used in many notable projects, including the rebuild of the University of Colorado campus in the 1920s that gave it its signature look today, as well as in red-tinged sidewalks of Denver and other cities. Much of the sandstone used in these earlier projects came from quarries near Lyons, and by the 1950s, Colorado sandstone was used in construction projects from California to Canada.
Today, other local quarries produce a steady supply of high-quality sandstone, making it a smart, sustainable choice for Colorado homes. It blends with the landscape and holds up in the state’s dry climate. Using local stone also reduces transportation costs and supports regional businesses.
Sandstone is one of the most versatile stones you can use in outdoor design and home construction. It’s durable, low-maintenance, and full of brown and reddish color variations that contrast nicely with the greens of landscaping.
Sandstone is a go-to for patios, walkways, and garden paths. Its natural texture gives it grip, even when wet. It also holds up in Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles without cracking, and won’t fade under intense UV exposure. Want a retaining wall that blends into the landscape? Sandstone fits the job. It’s easy to shape and stack, and it weathers beautifully over time.
Sandstone adds character to home interiors, too. Builders use it for structural accents, chimneys, and full facades. Inside, it shows up in statement fireplaces, feature walls, and entryways. Its earthy tones and layered patterns give spaces warmth without feeling too polished or cold. Sandstone also plays well with wood, glass, and metal, making it a favorite for custom homes that blend modern and natural design.
Looking for the visual impact of stone without the weight? Sandstone veneer is the answer. It’s often cut thin for easier handling and installation but still delivers the same layered look. Natural stone veneer works indoors or out—cladding for fireplaces, siding, outdoor kitchens, or accent walls. It’s lighter than full stone but just as durable when installed properly.
Sandstone is reliable, local, natural, and packed with character. Whether you’re building a backyard haven or designing a bold home exterior, this stone does the job with style and strength. At The Rock Garden in Fort Collins, we source local, high-quality Colorado sandstone and can help you choose the right cuts, colors, and finishes for your project.
Have questions or ready to start planning? Contact The Rock Garden today and visit the garden for inspiration.