Water erosion in flash floods, with relatively minor contributions from wind (eolian) processes, erodes slot canyons. In this case, the process is speedy by geologic standards, thanks to the young, soft, sandy, pyroclastic deposits here, emanating from eruptions around six million years ago in the nearby Jemez volcanic complex. The result is a sweeping set of sandwiched curves, a natural art form in three dimensions rendered even more abstract here in two, and tinted off its usual grayer shades by the filtered reddening light of latest afternoon.
5 NW Cochiti NM (31 Jul 17) Looking NW
35.6648, -106.4066Slot Canyon in the Tent Rocks
Water erosion in flash floods, with relatively minor contributions from wind (eolian) processes, erodes slot canyons. In this case, the process is speedy by geologic standards, thanks to the young, soft, sandy, pyroclastic deposits here, emanating from eruptions around six million years ago in the nearby Jemez volcanic complex. The result is a sweeping set of sandwiched curves, a natural art form in three dimensions rendered even more abstract here in two, and tinted off its usual grayer shades by the filtered reddening light of latest afternoon.
5 NW Cochiti NM (31 Jul 17) Looking NW
35.6648, -106.4066