Natural Springs at Tonto Bridge

by Lee Craig

Title

Natural Springs at Tonto Bridge

Artist

Lee Craig

Medium

Photograph - Fineart Photography-fineart Prints

Description

Tucked away in a tiny valley surrounded by a forest of pine trees, Tonto Natural Bridge has been in the making for thousands of years. It is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. The bridge stands 183 feet high over a 400-foot long tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point.
The discovery of the small and beautiful valley between Pine and Payson was documented in 1877 by David Gowan, a prospector who stumbled across the bridge as he was chased by Apaches. Gowan hid for two nights and three days in one of several caves that dot the inside of the bridge. On the third day, he left the cave to explore the tunnel and green valley surrounding it. Gowan then claimed squatter's rights.
In 1898 he persuaded his nephew, David Goodfellow, to bring his family over from Scotland and settle the land permanently. After a week of difficult travel from Flagstaff, the Goodfellows arrived at the edge of the mountain and lowered their possessions down the 500 foot slopes into the valley by ropes and burros. Today, visitors can stand on top of the bridge or hike down below to capture the true size and beauty of this geologic wonder.
According to state geologists, the formation of Tonto Natural Bridge went through several stages of development. The west side of Pine Creek was formed by a flow of lava. The rock eroded, leaving behind purple quartz sandstone. The area was then covered by sea water, leaving behind sediment of sand and mud. Volcanic eruptions covered the rock layers with lava, forming a basalt cap. Through erosion, the cap broke down and was shifted by faults, creating Pine Creek Canyon.
I visited in December and can only imagine what an incredibly beautiful hike this would be in the springtime. If you go, be sure to wear your hiking boots and carry a big stick…to lean on as you rest!
This print is perfect for the home or business setting … available in print, canvas or metal.
This and the other works in my portfolio and galleries are suitable for home and business décor. Please browse my work to find the perfect piece for your needs. Many of the images are available in several size formats.
I welcome your visits, comments, pins and tweets. Come back often as new work is added regularly. All images are copyrighted by Lee Craig. Copying, altering or displaying without the artists permission is prohibited. Thank you for visiting!

Uploaded

January 27th, 2014

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