Ever heard of Black Dragon Canyon? The Valley of Fire? Snow Canyon? Neither had I but they were along my route, AAA recommended them, and so I visited. I should have guessed they’d astound as they’re neighbors to other red rock greats. Because it left such a strong impression on me I also revisited Cedar Breaks National Monument where again I was taken aback.
Above you see just a tease of what Valley of Fire has to offer. The formations and colors were much more varied than at most parks. From jagged ranges to soft flowing rock, from intense rust red to pale beige, this place was a tightly packed jumble that was fun to explore.
Throughout the park set-up was taking place for a tire commercial shoot. While this took away a bit from the experience and added a few obstacles to photography, it was also interesting to watch. Props were being positioned and most were burned out shells of cars and trucks. After a while, the police chased all visitors out of the park so shooting could begin.
In contrast to the shades of variety at Valley of Fire, the colors of Snow Canyon were limited and stark. Rock was one of three colors: white, red or black. The white and red are sandstone but the black was lava from a cluster of volcanoes in the area. To see the lava still in flow patterns from eruptions centuries ago gave the impression of rivers frozen in time.
I was kind of impressed that this little-known park which occupied such a small area could offer so much to see. Volcanoes, their eruptions, and the resulting lava flows can have such an impact on the land. Here the lava appears just as flows across the surface. At Lassen NP the eruptions reshaped a mountain range and threw huge masses of rock in every direction. Among other things, the lava at Lava Tubes National Monument created a network of smooth-walled caves, excellent for exploring. Fascinating!
Between these two ranges is Black Dragon Canyon. As I drove by I didn’t know much about it but you couldn’t help but notice this distinctive canyon. Apparently it’s known for its hiking trails. The canyon trail is 4.5 miles long but continues for 15 miles to the top where camping sites are available. The longer hike is probably beyond me but the shorter sure sounds good!
Valley of Fire State Park
It occurs to me that this park could also be called “Valley on Fire” for one of its dominant features of sharp ascending canyons of deep red color. But as you’ll see it offers much more.
Snow Canyon State Park
Look for the black lava that flows down slopes, through cracks, and along the valley floor. This is what most impressed me about the park. The black accents the backdrop of red and white rock.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Sunlight can increase the radiance of color. These pictures were taken largely under cloud cover and I still had to reduce saturation and vibrancy to make these images look real. What a spot!
Cedar Breaks was a return engagement. I remember thinking on my first visit how wonderful it was and if only it were located elsewhere it would be world renown. As is, it’s located in the midst of such giants as Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. It doesn’t stand a chance! As if to make the point I searched my site for pictures from when I was last visiting the great parks of southern Utah. NADA! Cedar Breaks was squeezed out by the other greats.
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