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The viewpoint at Inspiration Point consists of three
levels that provide varied spectacular perspectives of the main
amphitheater. From here, visitors look toward the Silent City (near Sunset
Point) with its many rows of seemingly frozen hoodoos set against the
backdrop of Boat Mesa. All who look out from this point are bound to be
inspired, considering the intricacies of the hoodoos and their formation
through the erosion of the Claron Formation.
Geology
The Claron Formation consists of two members, the lower Pink Member, a
"dirty" limestone that contains sand, silt, and iron that lends the rock
its reddish color, and the upper White Member, a purer freshwater
limestone. This upper White Member of the Claron Formation is visible
below Inspiration Point, although few hoodoos form in this softer rock.
Nature
The barren slopes of Inspiration Point have a mix of trees including
Bristlecone Pines.
While famous for their venerable ages and gnarled trunks, younger
bristlecones take on a very different appearance. These trees are tall and
thin and unique among pines in that the entire length of their branches
are covered with needles giving them the bushy appearance that earned them
the nickname "fox-tail pines." Look carefully as you walk through these
barren slopes you might just discover a Mountain
Short-horned Lizard trying to remained camouflaged.
Trails
While no trails lead down into the canyon from the steep cliffs of
Inspiration Point, the Rim Trail extends south to Bryce Point and north to
Sunset Point.
WARNING! The cliffs of Inspiration Point are
exceptionally dangerous as they are formed of crumbly rock, slippery
slopes and sheer drop-offs. All visitors are strongly cautioned to remain
on trails and behind railings.
Services
None
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