According to the National Park Service, a popular geological formation known as “Double Arch” in Rock Creek Bay, located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in Utah, has collapsed. The arch, which also went by the names “Toilet Bowl”, “Crescent Pool” and “Hole in the Roof”, fell on Thursday, thankfully without causing any injuries.
The double arch was a product of Navajo sandstone, a material that dates back approximately 190 million years. Over time, the fine-grained sand feature had been subjected to chipping and erosion, mainly due to the relentless effects of wind and rain. It is believed that changes in water levels and the impact of waves contributed to the final collapse of the arch.
Michelle Kerns, the superintendent of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, emphasized the importance of protecting the area's mineral resources after the collapse. Kerns noted that these natural features have a lifespan that can be negatively affected or damaged by human interventions.
With more than 1.25 million acres in Arizona and Utah, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. In 2023 alone, the park welcomed more than 5.2 million visitors who came to enjoy attractions such as Lake Powell and Horseshoe Bend.
The collapse of the Double Arch is a reminder that even seemingly sturdy rock formations can fall as they are subjected to the forces of nature. Similar incidents have occurred elsewhere, including the collapse of the famous Elephant Trunk Rock in Taiwan last year.
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