Approximately 17 million years ago during the Miocene Epoch, these 150-foot-high cliffs along the Potomac River formed the ancient seashore. Rich Miocene fossil deposits in the 1 1/2-mile-long series of Horsehead, Stratford, and Nomini Cliffs can only be found in several locations in the world. Fossil remains of salt-water crocodiles, whales, porpoises, turtles, rays, and sharks can be discovered along the shoreline. This overlook is one of a few spots along Stratford's northern boundary with a clear view to the left of the Horsehead Cliffs.