Balanced Rock in Arches National Park ©2008 Bo Mackison
While Arches National Park in northeastern Utah is best known for its hundreds of red rock arches, many rock formations are almost equally as famous. Balanced Rock is one of the more well known, as it is easily seen from the main road in the park.
The uppermost part of Balanced Rock, a strong type of rock called Slick Rock sandstone, rests on a less stable rock known as Dewey Bridge mudstone. Since the mudstone erodes faster than the Slick Rock, top-heavy formations occur with some frequency. Eventually the weaker pedestals will wear away and Balanced Rock will collapse.
At dusk, the red hues of the rock are intensified, and it is quite impossible to drive past the rocks and not stop for a photograph. I would imagine anyone who has ever visited Arches has a photograph similar to this one.
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I never imagined them to be such deep reds. The sun setting low makes a neat color.
great photo
What a gorgeous earth…
tag…you are it:) http://organicsyes.wordpress.com/2008/10/21/7-secrets/
Fantastic colors and light. These formations are truly amazing.
Another beautiful photograph… well done.
You sure make the best of the light in these shots. This looks breath-taking.
Beautiful light Bo !!
Are there people on one of those rocks? Neat shot.
You’re killing me. This is gorgeous. I wish I were there.