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“Double Arch” in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area has collapsed: National Park Service
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“Double Arch” in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area has collapsed: National Park Service

The Double Arch in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, in a photo taken before the collapse. (Courtesy of the National Park Service)

National Park Service officials say a frequently visited geological formation in Utah’s Glen Canyon National Recreation Area has collapsed.

In a statement released on August 9, NPS said the Double Arch, also known as the “toilet bowl,” “half-moon basin” and “hole in the roof,” collapsed on August 8. No injuries were reported.

“Double Arch was formed from 190 million year old Navajo Sandstone, which dates from the late Triassic to early Jurassic period. Since its formation, this fine-grained sand formation has been subject to spalling and erosion by weather, wind and rain,” part of the statement reads. “Changes in water level and erosion by wave action may have contributed to the arch’s ultimate collapse.”

The Double Arch in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area after its collapse. (Courtesy: National Park Service)

The Double Arch in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area after its collapse. (Courtesy of the National Park Service)

“This event reminds us of our responsibility and need to protect the natural resources surrounding Lake Powell. These features have a lifespan that can be impacted or damaged by human activity,” said Michelle Kerns, manager of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. “Although we do not know what caused this collapse, we will continue our efforts to protect Lake Powell’s resources so future generations can continue to benefit. Please enjoy our resources, but leave no trace.”

This story was reported from Phoenix.

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