Utah
is known for several different types of stone formations. We saw the hoodoos at
Bryce Canyon. We’ve seen some arches and expect to see many more at Arches
National Park. We also plan to see the goblins at Goblin Valley State Park.
What
I didn’t realize was that Kodachrome Basin State Park has its own rock
formation called sand pipes that are only found here and no where else.
Apparently there are different theories how they are formed. One says they were
extruded upward in sandstone similar to an internal
geyser with harder minerals. Or, intrusions were created due to tectonic activity. In either case,
the softer sandstone eventually eroded away leaving these columns. These pipes
can be found in multiple places throughout the park.
Even
without the pipes, it’s a great park to visit. After the crowds of Zion and
Bryce, we enjoyed hiking here with fewer people on the trails.
I
have a theory that I have to work harder on trails like this than most people.
Being short, I have to move my legs more and work harder on the big steps.
Plus, being scared of heights, my heart beats more when traveling what we are
calling mountain goat trails. Love the views and the challenge though!
After
Kodachrome, we visited Grosvenor Arch. This one was quite a challenge for John.
It was 10 miles back on a dirt road with washboard sections, a bit of a water crossing,
and driving over some hills. Even though it is remote, we had to pass 10 or so cars.
At one point we were fishtailing in loose sand along the edge of the road.
But
the double arch was pretty cool!
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