Category: Points of Interest

Subway Canyon – Left Fork of North Creek

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Subway Slot Canyon is a unique geological formation located in the Zion National Park in southwestern Utah, USA. It is considered one of the most popular hiking trails in the park, known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views. The canyon gets its name from its tubular shape, which resembles the underground trains or subway tunnels.

The Subway Slot Canyon located in Zion National Park, Utah. Photograph by James L Rathbun
The Subway Slot Canyon located in Zion National Park, Utah. Photograph by James L Rathbun

History

The Subway Slot Canyon was formed millions of years ago by the erosion of Navajo Sandstone, a red-colored rock formation that is found in the southwestern United States. The slot canyon was created by the flow of water, which gradually wore away the sandstone, forming a narrow, winding passage through the rock. The canyon was first discovered by explorers in the 1930s, but it was not until the 1970s that it became a popular destination for hikers.

Geology

The Subway Slot Canyon is a part of the Zion Wilderness, which covers an area of approximately 124,406 acres. The canyon is about 9 miles long and ranges in width from 5 to 15 feet. The canyon walls are made up of Navajo Sandstone, which is known for its unique patterns and colors. The sandstone is layered, with different colors and textures, giving the canyon walls a unique and stunning appearance. The canyon also features a series of pools and waterfalls, which add to its beauty.

Flora and Fauna

The Subway Slot Canyon is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The area around the canyon is covered with sagebrush, juniper, and pinyon trees. The canyon itself is home to a variety of ferns, mosses, and other plant species. The canyon is also home to a variety of animals, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and mountain lions. Hikers may also see a variety of birds, including hawks, eagles, and owls.

Hiking Experience

The Subway Slot Canyon is considered one of the most challenging hiking trails in the Zion National Park. The trail is rated as moderate to strenuous and requires a permit to hike. Hikers must be prepared for a difficult and sometimes dangerous hike, as the trail includes steep drops, narrow passageways, and deep pools of water. Hikers must also be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the canyon can be very hot in the summer and very cold in the winter.

The Subway Slot Canyon is a unique geological formation that offers hikers a challenging and rewarding experience. The canyon’s unique colors, textures, and shapes make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Zion National Park. However, hikers must be prepared for the challenges that come with hiking in the canyon, including difficult terrain and changing weather conditions. With proper preparation and precautions, hikers can safely explore the beauty of the Subway Slot Canyon and experience one of the most stunning geological formations in the world.

Temple of Sinawava

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Located in Zion National Park in southwestern Utah, the Temple of Sinawava is a stunning geological formation that attracts visitors from all around the world. This natural temple is the result of millions of years of geological processes, and it has been a sacred site for the indigenous people of the area for centuries. In this travel and geological report, we will explore the history, geology, and attractions of the Temple of Sinawava, as well as provide practical information for visitors.

Temple of Sinawava, Zion National Park, Utah, Medium Format Photograph: James L Rathbun
Temple of Sinawava, Zion National Park, Utah, Medium Format Photograph: James L Rathbun

History

The Temple of Sinawava is named after the Paiute Indian god, Sinawava, who is believed to have lived in the area. For centuries, the Paiute and other indigenous peoples have considered the area to be sacred, and they have performed various rituals and ceremonies there. The Paiute called the area “Mukuntuweap,” which means “straight canyon,” and it was later renamed Zion National Park by the Mormons who settled in the area.

Geology

The Temple of Sinawava is located at the end of the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, and it is one of the most popular destinations in the park. The temple is a natural amphitheater that was formed by the Virgin River, which has been carving through the sandstone for millions of years. The river has eroded the sandstone in such a way that it has created a stunning array of geological features, including towering cliffs, deep canyons, and narrow slot canyons.

The Temple of Sinawava is a particularly unique geological formation because it is located at the end of Zion Canyon, where the canyon narrows dramatically. The canyon walls rise up to over 2,000 feet in height, and they are composed of various layers of sandstone that were deposited over millions of years. The layers of sandstone are different colors, ranging from red to white, and they provide a stunning contrast against the blue sky.

Attractions

The Temple of Sinawava offers visitors a variety of attractions, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The most popular activity at the temple is hiking the Riverside Walk, which is a 2.2-mile round-trip hike that follows the Virgin River to the entrance of the temple. Along the way, hikers will be treated to stunning views of the canyon walls, as well as a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, mule deer, and numerous bird species.

Once visitors reach the entrance of the temple, they can continue hiking up the river, which leads to the beginning of the Narrows. The Narrows is a narrow slot canyon that is formed by the Virgin River, and it is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park. The Narrows can be hiked in two ways, either by hiking up the river or by hiking down the river. Hiking up the river requires a permit and special equipment, while hiking down the river is open to all visitors.

Another popular attraction at the Temple of Sinawava is photography. The temple is a popular destination for photographers, both amateur and professional, who come to capture the stunning beauty of the canyon walls and the river. The best time to photograph the temple is during the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is low in the sky and the light is soft and warm.

Practical Information

The Temple of Sinawava is located in Zion National Park, which is open year-round. The park is located in southwestern Utah, and it can be accessed via State Route 9, which runs through the park. There are a variety of lodging options in the park, including campgrounds, lodges, and hotels, as well as numerous restaurants and gift shops.

Visitors to the Temple of Sinawava should come prepared with appropriate clothing and gear, as the weather can be unpredictable.

Balanced Rock

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Balanced Rock is an iconic natural feature located in Arches National Park, Utah, USA. This geological formation consists of a large boulder balanced precariously on top of a much smaller pedestal rock. The rock formation is an example of a natural geological process known as erosion and has become a popular destination for tourists from around the world. In this report, we will explore the geological history of Balanced Rock, its significance, and how it has become an important part of the natural landscape of Arches National Park.

Early Evening At Balanced Rock in Arches National Park, Medium Format Photograph bu James L Rathbun
Early Evening At Balanced Rock in Arches National Park, Medium Format Photograph bu James L Rathbun

Geological History

Balanced Rock is situated in an area known as the Entrada Sandstone Formation. This formation was created around 180 million years ago, during the Jurassic Period, when the region was a vast desert. Over time, layers of sediment accumulated on the desert floor, which eventually became compressed and turned into rock. The Entrada Sandstone Formation is composed of a soft, red sandstone, which is prone to erosion.

Erosion is a natural geological process that occurs when wind, water, and other natural forces wear away at the surface of the Earth. In the case of Balanced Rock, the pedestal rock is made of a harder, more erosion-resistant sandstone than the boulder on top. As the softer sandstone eroded away, the harder rock was left behind, forming a pedestal. Over time, the boulder on top was also eroded, creating the balanced formation that we see today.

Significance

Balanced Rock has become an iconic symbol of Arches National Park and a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The formation is an excellent example of the natural geological processes that shape our planet and provides a unique window into the history of the Earth.

Balanced Rock is also significant from a cultural perspective. For centuries, the land that is now Arches National Park was home to indigenous people, including the Ute and Paiute tribes. These tribes believed that the rock formations in the park held spiritual significance and would often conduct ceremonies and rituals in the area.

In addition to its cultural significance, Balanced Rock is also an important habitat for a variety of plants and animals. The area around the formation is home to a variety of desert plants, including cacti and sagebrush, as well as a variety of small mammals and birds.

Conservation Efforts

Arches National Park was established in 1971 to protect the unique geological and cultural features of the area, including Balanced Rock. The park is managed by the National Park Service and is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the region for future generations.

Conservation efforts in the park are focused on maintaining the delicate balance between human use and environmental preservation. Visitors to the park are encouraged to stay on designated trails and follow the “Leave No Trace” principles to minimize their impact on the natural environment.

In addition to visitor education, the National Park Service also conducts ongoing research to monitor the health of the park’s ecosystems. This research helps to identify potential threats to the park’s natural resources and develop strategies to mitigate those threats.

Conclusion

Balanced Rock is a natural wonder that has captured the imagination of people from around the world. This iconic formation is a testament to the power of natural geological processes and provides a unique window into the history of the Earth. Its cultural and ecological significance make it an important part of Arches National Park, and conservation efforts are underway to ensure that this unique feature remains protected for future generations to enjoy.

Jarbidge Community Hall – Nevada State Historic Marker 153

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The Jarbidge Community Hall is a central gathering place for the residents of Jarbidge, Nevada. Built in 1939, the hall has served as a venue for community events, meetings, and social gatherings for more than 80 years. The hall is located on the main street of Jarbidge, and its distinctive Art Deco design makes it a landmark in the town.

The history of the Jarbidge Community Hall is intertwined with the history of the town itself. Jarbidge was founded in the late 19th century, during Nevada’s mining boom. The town was named after a nearby creek, and its population grew rapidly as miners flocked to the area in search of gold and silver.

Jarbidge Community Hall, Jarbidge, Elko county, Nevada
Jarbidge Community Hall, Jarbidge, Elko county, Nevada

By the early 20th century, Jarbidge had become an important mining town, with several mines operating in the area. The town’s population peaked in the 1920s, with around 1,500 residents. During this time, the town was home to several businesses, including hotels, saloons, and general stores.

However, the Great Depression hit Jarbidge hard, and the town’s mining industry began to decline. By the late 1930s, many of the mines had closed, and the town’s population had dwindled to just a few hundred people.

Despite the difficult times, the residents of Jarbidge remained committed to their community. In 1939, they came together to build a place to gather within the town. The building was designed by local architect Paul Revere Williams, who was one of the few African American architects working in the United States at the time. Williams was known for his Art Deco designs, and the Jarbidge Community Hall is one of his few surviving buildings in Nevada.

The Jarbidge Community Hall was built using local materials, including stone from a nearby quarry and wood from the surrounding forests. The hall’s Art Deco style is evident in its streamlined design, geometric shapes, and use of decorative elements such as the zigzag patterns on the building’s façade.

Over the years, the building has served as a venue for a wide range of events. In the early days, it was used for dances, social gatherings, and community meetings. During World War II, it was used as a venue for USO shows and other events to support the war effort. In the decades that followed, it continued to be a central gathering place for the residents of Jarbidge, hosting everything from weddings and birthday parties to town meetings and political rallies.

Today, the Jarbidge Community Hall remains an important part of the town’s identity. It is still used for community events and social gatherings, and it serves as a reminder of the town’s rich history and strong sense of community. The hall has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1990, and it is considered one of the most significant Art Deco buildings in rural Nevada.

In recent years, the Jarbidge Community Hall has undergone several renovations to ensure that it remains a functional and attractive venue for the town’s residents. The building’s stone façade has been restored, and the interior has been updated with new flooring and lighting. The hall is now fully accessible, with a wheelchair ramp and updated restrooms.

Despite its small size, the Jarbidge Community Hall is a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Jarbidge. It is a symbol of the town’s enduring spirit and its commitment to preserving its history and traditions for future generations.

Nevada State Historic Marker Text

Gold discoveries by Dave Bourne in 1909 created the town of Jarbidge.

With 1,500 population in Jarbidge Canyon by 1910, citizens built this pioneer-type community hail with a “floating” maple floor.  Support from the Nevada Commission for Cultural Affairs and the community funded the restoration of the building.

STATE HISTORIC MARKER NO.  153
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
JARBIDGE COMMERCIAL HALL FUND AND IMPROVEMENT CLUB

Nevada State Historic Marker 153 Location

Jarbidge Community Hall Summary

NameJarbidge Community Hall
LocationJarbidge, Elko County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude41.8783, -115.4303
Nevada State Historic Maker 153

References

Gold Hill Nevada

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Gold Hill, Nevada is a small unincorporated community located in Storey County, Nevada, United States. It is situated on the eastern side of the Virginia Range, about 10 miles south of Reno. The history of Gold Hill dates back to the early 1850s when gold was discovered in the area.

Gold Hill, Nevada Circa 1867, 1868 Photographer Timothy H. O'Sullivan
Gold Hill, Nevada Circa 1867, 1868 Photographer Timothy H. O’Sullivan

The discovery of gold in Gold Hill is credited to two miners, Peter O’Riley and Patrick McLaughlin, who were working on the Comstock Lode. In 1859, O’Riley and McLaughlin found a rich vein of gold near the top of a hill. They named the hill Gold Hill and the area soon became a booming mining town.

By 1860, the population of Gold Hill had grown to over 1,000 people. The town had several saloons, a hotel, a newspaper, and a variety of other businesses. The mining companies in the area were also thriving, with the largest, the Consolidated Virginia and California Mine, producing millions of dollars worth of gold and silver.

Gold Hill was a rough and rowdy town, with gambling, drinking, and fighting being common occurrences. However, the town also had a more cultured side, with several theatrical performances and lectures taking place in the local opera house.

In 1875, tragedy struck Gold Hill when a fire destroyed much of the town. Despite the setback, the mining companies continued to operate and the town slowly began to rebuild.

Gold Hill, Nevada, View from above the Yellow Jacket. Date of photo: Late 1870s Photographer: Carleton Watkins
Gold Hill, Nevada, View from above the Yellow Jacket. Date of photo: Late 1870s Photographer: Carleton Watkins

Over time, the mining industry in the area declined and many of the mines were shut down. However, Gold Hill remained a small community and its historic buildings and landmarks have been preserved.

Today, Gold Hill is a popular tourist destination, with many of its historic buildings, including the Gold Hill Hotel and the Gold Hill Brewery, still standing. Visitors can also take a tour of the nearby mining sites and learn about the history of mining in the area.

In conclusion, Gold Hill, Nevada has a rich and storied history that dates back to the early days of the mining industry in the American West. Despite facing setbacks and challenges over the years, Gold Hill has managed to preserve its unique character and charm, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and tourists alike.

Gold Hill Nevada Trail Map

Gold Hill Nevada Summary

NameGold Hill, Nevada
LocationStorey County, Nevada
Latitude, Longitude39.2931, -119.6566
Elevation5,980 Feet
GNIS
Population8,000 Max
95 Current
NewspapersGold Hill Daily News Oct 12, 1863 – Apr 1882
Daily Morning Message June 16, 1864
People’s Tribune (The) Jan – June 1870
Post OfficeJul. 13, 1862 – Feb. 27, 1943