Desolation Canyon

Desolation Canyon is located on the west side of the Black Mountains between Golden Canyon and Artist's drive

Desolation12-.jpg (9425 bytes)

A general view of the canyon.

Desolation13-.jpg (9311 bytes)

The walls contain some vivid colors.

Desolation15-.jpg (8811 bytes)

There are many strange shapes visible on the canyon walls.

Desolation16-.jpg (10188 bytes)

Dirt from a side canyon formed a dam in the main canyon.  Water carrying mud was trapped behind the dam where it dropped the mud and evaporated.   This area of cracked mud 3 to 4 inches deep resulted.

Desolation17-.jpg (7945 bytes)

This dirt from a side canyon appears to have been eroded by forces other than water.

Desolation18-.jpg (12874 bytes)

Water running down the canyon walls carrying mud has created these "candle wax" formations.

Back   Next

Page last updated August 02, 2004