The arches of Arches NP were formed by differential erosion of the weaker sedimentary rock underneath the arch. As an exposed weaker area crumbles, what is left above it can be fortified by the added pressure now of hold the rock above it. This is the beginning of an arch, which we got to walk over on our way to our destination.
The hike ended on the far right of this picture. That is Corona Arch. On the left of this picture is Bowtie Arch. Difficult to see in this picture, there is actually a second arch forming behind the one you see here. That's where the name comes from.
This picture was taken during the hike out, and it was noted that there were several smooth rocks littering this part of the trail. The Geologist who was leading the hike told us that, at one time, the Colorado River was flowing through this area and left these rocks as it does today in a different part of the canyon.
Another arch "beginning" to be formed on the far side of the canyon.
More signs of differential erosion. These holes are gas pockets that allowed the sedimentary rock to form around it and then, when exposed, remained as small pockets.
Approaching Corona Arch.
Our group getting the final lecture at Corona.
After the morning Geology Lecture/Hike, I drove myself through Canyonlands NP. This was on the other side of the Moab valley. There were several hikes available but almost of the views were accessible by car. These shots were taken from various scenic overlooks.
On tap for this week: getting the camera fixed, maybe some more snowboarding, and golf!!
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