Overview
The Western High Atlas of Morocco occupy a critical position in relation to the opening of the North Atlantic in Mesozoic times and to the Alpine fold belts of Europe in general.
Description
The first sign of an ocean to the west was in early Jurassic times, but the main transgression came at the beginning of the late Jurassic. The spread of various fossil groups up the opening Atlantic is discussed. Structurally the Western High Atlas resembles the Jura Mountains and their structures are shown to end at the continental margin.
South of Marrakesh, Morocco's highest peak, Jebel Toubkal (4167m), sits at the centre of Toubkal National Park. Since these peaks are just 2½ hours from Marrakesh, Jebel Toubkal is the most frequently visited High Atlas region and has long been a key route south. It is most easily accessible via the Ourika and Mizane Valleys. The heavily touristed Ourika Valley deposits you at the trekking base of Setti Fatma, while the Mizane Valley leads you to the more atmospheric village of Imlil. The ski resort of Oukaimeden sits between the two.