Wall Arch collapse

Wall Arch, one of the largest and most visible arches in Utah's famous Arches National Park collapsed sometime late Monday or early Tuesday (August 5, 2008). The arch is along Devils Garden Trail, one of the most popular in the park. For years, the arch has been a favorite stopping point for photographers.

The arch was claimed by forces that will eventually destroy others in the park: gravity and erosion. Arches National Park located 5 miles north of Moab, Utah preserves over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, like the world-famous Delicate Arch, as well as many other unusual rock formations. In some areas, the forces of nature have exposed millions of years of geologic history.
The extraordinary features of the park create a landscape of contrasting colors, landforms and textures that is unlike any other in the world.
It was the first collapse major arch in the park since nearby Landscape Arch fell in 1991.
Like others, it was formed by entrada sandstone being whittled over time into its distinctive formation.

Measuring more than 33 feet (10 meters) tall and 71 feet (22 meters) across, Wall Arch ranked 12th in size among the park's estimated 2,000 arches. It was first reported and named in 1948.
Several years ago we drove to and hiked through Arches National Park and were awed by the beautiful natural formations. The many hiking trails were well maintained and, if you were able, lead you to outstanding scenic areas.