Nestled amid the rugged and breathtaking expanse of the Grand Canyon lies a realm of concealed marvels eagerly anticipating discovery. Dr. Harvey Butchart, a trailblazer in canyon exploration, dedicated decades to unraveling the mysteries of this splendid terrain. His endeavors led to the unveiling of natural bridges, windows, and tunnels, each showcasing the geological marvels that define this iconic national park.
In this narrative, we embark on an expedition into the core of the Grand Canyon, guided by the expertise and fervor of Dr. Butchart. Through his methodical exploration and detailed records, we gain a profound understanding of the genesis and significance of these natural wonders. Each of these formations serves as a testament to the enduring forces of nature that have sculpted this remarkable landscape over eons.
Come along with us as we delve into the extraordinary realm of natural bridges, windows, and tunnels within the Grand Canyon. Here, the splendor of geology intertwines with the thrill of adventure, evoking a sense of awe and fostering a deep appreciation for the marvels that grace our planet.
Discover the Hidden Secrets: Grand Canyon Tunnels and Bridges
The Grand Canyon, known for its overwhelming size and its elaborate and beautiful red and orange landscape, holds much more than meets the eye. Below its daunting ridges and vast open spaces lie intricate tunnels and natural bridges, each with a story and uniqueness that adds to the wonder of Grand Canyon.
Majestic Holes through the Redwall Rim of South Canyon
Located at Mile 31.7 in Marble Canyon, about half a mile from the river, you will find impressive holes within the Redwall rim of South Canyon. These intriguing holes, discovered in 1962, boast a diameter of approximately six to eight feet. They intriguingly open on the wall about 20 feet below the rim, adding a distinct feature to the canyon’s fascinating landscape.
Bridge of Sighs: Natural Wonder in the Redwall
Situated at Mile 35.7 on the right bank in the Redwall, the Bridge of Sighs is a breathtaking natural marvel. Discovered by Kolbs in 1911, it gracefully arches high above the river, spanning a deep ravine. The serene beauty of this structure adds a profound sense of awe to the canyon’s character.
The Aerial Spectacle: Kolb Bridge
First spotted from the air by Goldwater around 1952, Kolb Bridge is an aerial spectacle. It was first visited by Goldwater and his helicopter pilot in 1954. With an impressive span and height of around 147 feet, the bridge forms a compelling sight, offering visitors an astounding testament to nature’s architectural prowess.
Mysterious Brady Hole
The Brady Hole, a vertical hole roughly 20 feet in diameter, is a striking feature situated in the roof of a Redwall alcove on the east side of Brady Butte. First sighted by G. Beck and then independently discovered in 1973, this natural formation adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the well-known canyon’s landscape.
Breathtaking Hartman Bridge
The Hartman Bridge, first sighted from the air by James Hartman, is an awe-inspiring natural wonder situated in the North arm of Lava Canyon. Measuring approximately 130 feet wide and slightly less in height, it was independently found and first photographed in 1958. The bridge adds a distinctive charm and grandeur to the intricate geographical layout of the canyon.
Delving into the Apollo Tunnel
The Apollo Tunnel, a vast cave over 50 feet in diameter, dramatically situates on the north side of Apollo Temple. Discovered in 1965, it features a small hole in the roof, adding to the canyon’s allure. This hidden cavern gives visitors a chance to explore an extraordinary facet of the Grand Canyon.
The Marvelous Cardenas Bridge
The Cardenas Bridge, situated on the east side of a Redwall promontory, extending north from beneath Cardenas Butte, is a captivating sight. With a rough estimate of about 30 feet by 15 feet, this bridge holds a special place in the history of the Canyon, known to miners back in the days. This natural marvel was discovered independently in 1963 and has since been a significant point of interest for many visitors.
A well-known attraction near Cape Royal, Angel’s Window offers an enchanting view and an intriguing geological formation. It is highly recommended for visitors who enjoy captivating landscapes.
Located north of Lyell Butte, a modest window through the rim of the Redwall presents an understated charm. Though not particularly impressive in size, this window, roughly 20 feet by 10 feet, provides a unique perspective of the canyon and its intricate geology.
Found where the trail cuts through the Bright Angel shale, this small enclave, approximately 10 feet by 10 feet, marks a distinctive feature on the Grand Canyon map. Despite its size, it lends an intricate touch to the vast canyon landscape.
A Peek through the Butte: Window through the top of the north buttress of Cheops Pyramid
This window, with an approximate dimension of 15 feet by 15 feet, is carved into an unconventional type of rock. It offers a different perspective and lends an extra layer of intrigue to the exploration of the canyon.
Discovered from the vantage point of the Tonto to the south, this window offers a spectacular view-point of the landscape. Estimated to be about 25 feet by 15 feet, it provides a unique frame through which the canyon can be appreciated.
Located on the west side of the east arm of Dragon Creek, an inclined hole, about 8 feet in diameter, adorns the Redwall rim. This window offers a panoramic view of the creek and the surroundings, inviting visitors to take in the grand spectacle that is the Grand Canyon.
Mysteries of the Alsap Window
Situated on the fin extending south from Alsap Butte, the Alsap Window presents a remarkable sight. Its unique structure can be seen from the Vista Encantadora along the east rim scenic drive. From the middle of this enchanting structure, a vertical shaft ascends through the roof, adding another layer of interest to the stunning geological formation.
Tips for Visiting the Alsap Window:
- It is best viewed during the day when the sun’s rays penetrate the tunnel.
- Remember to pay attention to the vertical shaft in the middle of the oblique tunnel. This distinct feature is a treat for geology enthusiasts.
- While there, it is also worth visiting the notable Alsap Butte, a feature lending its name to the window.
The Secluded Window in the Redwall Rim
Tucked away on the east side of the upper Bright Angel Creek, a little further north than the spring, sits a window through the Redwall rim. Despite its seemingly hidden location, the formation holds a mystique, having been mentioned by Billingsley and other canyon explorers.
Located at the head of the Redwall Gorge in Mauv Canyon or White Creek is a spectacular tunnel through the Redwall rim. This cavernous structure, renowned since before 1900, can be admired from the North Bass Trail. Despite its historical significance, its relatively sequestered location allows for many modern ‘independent’ discoveries.
The Stately Royal Arch above Elves Chasm
The Royal Arch, standing majestically above Elves Chasm, is a natural wonder approximately 65 feet by 65 feet in size. With a tunnel-like structure extending about 40 feet through a thick fin, its unique appearance commands attention. The Arch holds the distinction of being the only natural bridge in Grand Canyon with a permanent water flow. Interestingly, even though it was named on the old Matthes-Evans map, the reason behind the name remained a mystery until the arch was discovered.
The Alluring Window of the Redwall Rim
Located on the eastern flank of Royal Arch Creek, just south of the impressive Royal Arch, lies an intriguing window through the Redwall rim. This geological marvel was discovered on the same day as the Royal Arch. It’s a must-visit for those on an expedition to the Royal Arch, offering a unique perspective of the remarkable rock formations that make up the Grand Canyon.
Hints for Visitors:
- The best time to visit would be during the day for optimal natural lighting, enhancing the view of the formations through the window;
- Remember to check out the Royal Arch nearby, one of the Grand Canyon’s most magnificent natural bridges.
The Fascinating Tunnel at Mystic Spring
A former camping spot for W. W. Bass, the Mystic Spring area is home to a tunnel about 4 feet in diameter that leads to a vertical shaft approximately 15 feet deep, located just a few yards north of the historic campsite. Despite rumors of it having dried up, the spring maintains a gentle flow during wet seasons. The area is approximately a mile north of its misplaced location on the Matthes-Evans map, situated just south of where the western rim of Spencer Terrace bends to the northwest.
The Remarkable Keyhole Bridge
Discovered by P.T. Reilly, the Keyhole Bridge is a hidden treasure located in the west arm of 140 Mile Canyon. Although narrower, it stands taller than the famed Royal Arch, earning it the title of the third-largest natural bridge in the Grand Canyon. Its distinctive keyhole shape is a captivating sight for adventurers exploring the canyon’s depths.
The Captivating Holes in the Redwall Rim
On the western flanks of Beaver Canyon, the tributary of Havasu Canyon, one can find intriguing holes tunneled through the Redwall rim. These natural punctures in the Redwall layer were first noted in 1961 during a walk along the rim above the mouth of Havasu Creek. Their unique formation adds to the rich geographical tapestry of the Grand Canyon landscape.
Intriguing Redwall Rim Hole
Situated on the western side of Havasu Canyon, just north of the stunning Mooney Falls, one can uncover a captivating hole through the Redwall rim. This geological marvel has previously been featured in Arizona Highways, highlighting the beauty and allure of these unique formations in the Grand Canyon.
The Hidden Gems of Tuckup Canyon
Home to a series of natural bridges and windows, Tuckup Canyon promises a visual treat for explorers. These fascinating geological formations have been documented by George Billingsley, a renowned figure in the field, associated with the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff. For extended information about these bridges and windows, a correspondence with Mr. Billingsley would provide valuable insights.
Mysterious Alamo Window
Positioned south of the narrows at the lower end of Fern Glen Canyon is the Alamo Window, an attractive formation possibly about 60 feet in diameter. Initially spotted by Norman Nevilles and later rediscovered by an aerial survey from Las Vegas, this Redwall fin window adds another fascinating chapter to the geological story of the Grand Canyon.
Hidden Treasure: Granite Park Quad Map Natural Arch
On the 7.5-minute Granite Park Quad map, one can discern a natural arch crafted through the Redwall rim. Located on the west side of the river around Mile 217, this arch is slightly visible from certain areas just above the river. This hidden gem is a fine example of the Grand Canyon’s many geological surprises waiting to be discovered by keen-eyed explorers.
Exclusions and Inclusions
This compilation does not cover the numerous crawlways through piles of chockstones or the small holes formed in fins that are ideal for anchoring climbing ropes. Also omitted are holes created by fallen rocks over a passage. However, it includes the most remarkable of these:
The Fascinating Fallen Tower Bridge
The Fallen Tower Bridge, poised near the formidable Eminence Break Route leading to the President Harding Rapid, is a sight to behold. Born from a pivoted rock tumbling from its balanced perch and becoming lodged across a 30-foot wide ravine, this natural bridge is tucked away on the left rim of the picturesque Marble Canyon. Below the Kaibab Formation rim by about 100 feet, the bridge can be found where the Eminence Break kisses the rim. A treat for avid explorers, the Fallen Tower Bridge is a stunning structure that adds to the allure of the Grand Canyon.
The Aerial Discovery: Robertson’s Bridge
A natural bridge so elusive it was discovered from the sky! Located on the western rim of the Walhalla Plateau, almost directly above the cascading beauty of the Cheyava Falls, this bridge was first spotted by a ranger named Robertson. This tucked-away structure is an iconic example of the hidden gems that lie in wait throughout the Grand Canyon.
The Jicarilla Bridge: A Rim Marvel
Nestled just west of the picturesque Jicarilla Point lies the Jicarilla Bridge. Visible on various maps and stretching across the Kaibab Formation’s rim, it has been a point of interest since its report to the rangers in 1961. This naturally formed bridge contributes to the diverse geological structures that the canyon is celebrated for.
The Quirky Angular Hole through the Grand Scenic Divide
Situated at the northern end of the Grand Scenic Divide lies an angular opening, punctuating the geological beauty of the landscape. This intriguing hole, measuring about 8 feet by 10 feet, is approximately 80 feet below the top of the fin. Despite the challenging scramble down the rim of the Bass Trail, reaching this opening is a testament to the adventurous spirit and is well worth the effort.
Redwall Rim Holes: Havasu Creek’s Hidden Gems
On the right side of a tributary of Havasu Creek, just south of Mount Sinyala, one can discover holes piercing the Redwall Rim. Each of these geological anomalies adds a whisper of mystery and an invitation to exploration for those wandering through this part of the Grand Canyon.
Uncharted Natural Windows near the Kirby Trail
In the upper part of Havasu Canyon, east of the Kaibab rim, a series of bridges or windows beckon explorers. Adjacent to the lesser-known Kirby Trail, these formations offer an extraordinary experience for adventurers. Although the trail is absent from most maps, local residents, like the Babbitt ranchers living in the Wells, can provide precise location details for interested explorers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the journey into the heart of the Grand Canyon guided by Dr. Harvey Butchart’s expertise and passion unveils a world of natural wonders that inspire awe and appreciation. Through meticulous exploration and documentation, we have gained profound insights into the formation and significance of natural bridges, windows, and tunnels within this iconic landscape. The enduring forces of nature, as evidenced by these geological marvels, remind us of the beauty and complexity of our planet, encouraging us to cherish and protect its wonders for generations to come.