GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA, Utah — A popular arch in Rock Creek Bay at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area has collapsed, National Park Service rangers confirmed Friday.
No one was injured when the “Double Arch” geologic feature — also known as the “Toilet Bowl,” “Crescent Pool” and “Hole in the Roof” — collapsed Thursday, according to the NPS.
“This event serves as a reminder of our responsibility and need to protect the mineral resources surrounding Lake Powell,” Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Superintendent Michelle Kerns said.
“These features have a lifespan that can be influenced or damaged by manmade interventions. While we don’t know what caused this collapse, we will continue to maintain our resource protection efforts on Lake Powell for future generations to enjoy. Please enjoy our resources but leave no trace.”
The arch was formed from 190-million-year-old Navajo sandstone originating in the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods, NPS officials said.
Since its formation, the fine-grained sand feature has been subject to spalling and erosion from weather, wind and rain, the NPS said in a news release. Changing water levels and erosion from wave action is suspected of contributing to the ultimate collapse of the arch.
