This Stunning Natural Arch In Arizona’s Lake Powell Is Visible For The First Time In Over 50 Years
There are quite a few natural arches in Arizona to explore, and most of them are well known and documented. Gregory Natural Bridge, however, is an entirely different story. This 137-foot Navajo sandstone arch has been submerged beneath the waters of Lake Powell for over 50 years! Prolonged drought conditions have revealed it, and the result is truly stunning.
Part of the Colorado River in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Lake Powell is one of the most iconic vacation spots in Arizona and Utah.
A manmade reservoir, the lake is visited by about two million people each year, and it's the second-largest artificial reservoir in the U.S (although how long that will last is anyone's guess due to prolonged drought conditions).
Although the drought hammering Lake Powell is far from celebratory, it does have unintended perks.
Perhaps you'll discover even more treasures that have been buried underwater for decades - or maybe even longer. Who knows what else might have revealed itself?
Check out this YouTube video by Kevin K to watch someone paddle underneath the bridge.
The arch may not be around forever – sandstone is extremely porous, so erosion happens more quickly than with most other types of rock. That’s just one more reason to see it as soon as possible! Did you know about Gregory Natural Bridge? If so, have you seen it in person? What other hidden wonders do you think exist in Lake Powell? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.