How did uplift and erosion shape the Sierra Madre Oriental?

The Sierra Madre Oriental is primarily composed of folded sedimentary rocks dating to the Cretaceous Period. Its current relief is the result of geological processes that have occurred since approximately 23 million years ago.1

The formation of the range is attributed to a combination of uplift, faulting, and erosion. These forces have sculpted the region into a rugged, rounded terrain. Additionally, the presence of numerous igneous intrusions has further influenced the structural composition of the mountains. Today, the range is characterized by steep-walled, narrow valleys and reaches summit elevations of about 7,000 feet (2,100 metres), with some peaks exceeding 10,000 feet.12