The Saluda Formation, a lithologically distinct but spatially variable unit, is mappable in the subsurface. Lithologic characters such as dolomitic and laminated finegrained carbonates, paucity of fossils and terriginous detritus, birdseye structures, and intraclasts distinguish the formation and aid in interpreting the depositional environment. Similarities of features for modern and ancient carbonate tidal-flats and those of the Saluda suggest a tidal-flat environment of origin for the formation. Lateral and vertical lithologic relationships with contiguous formations record spatially variable but time transgressive subenvironments of deposition for the tidal-flat complex and surrounding sea.