Named for Hells Bells Canyon. Type section designated as north-central part of T7S R60E about 5 mi northwest of Alamo, Lincoln Co, NV. Shown on sketch map as lower of 4 formations in Pahranagat area volcanic sequence consisting of over 3000 ft of widespread distinctive rhyodacite ignimbrites interbedded with Miocene sedimentary rocks. Entire section rests with angular unconformity on Paleozoic rocks. Hells Bells Canyon Formation is most varied of formations in composition and thickness. Can be divided into 6 lithologic subunits of unequal distribution and thickness: conglomerate, basal ignimbrite, water-laid tuff, limestone, welded tuffs, and semiconsolidated tuffs. Is from 800 to 1000 ft thick. Conformably underlies Hiko Tuff (new) of volcanic sequence. Age is Oligocene(?) to Miocene based on meager fossil evidence from limestone and correlation with other formations.

Source: GNU records (USGS DDS-6; Menlo GNULEX).