Jomoud's Fotothing

We have now reached the south rim and made our way to "Artist Point"

In my opinion, Artist Point is one of the most scenic spots if not the most scenic in all of America. The dramatic view of the canyon and Lower Falls from this spot have has attracted numerous famous artists. No wonder it was also one of the most favourite locations of Ansel Adams. You have to come here to feel the enormity of what nature has created here.


Yellowstone Park's Canyon is every bit as spectacular as the Grand Canyon in Arizona. With a length of 20 miles (32 km), a width of between 1500 to 4000 feet (450-1200 meters) and a depth of over 1000 feet (305 meters) the canyon presents itself in many different colours depending on the time of day and the intensity of sunlight, the view from the north rim being very different than the south rim.

About 640.000 years ago, a huge volcanic eruption occurred in Yellowstone, emptying a large underground chamber of magma (partially molten rock). Volcanic debris spread for thousands of miles in a metter of minutes. The roof of this chamber collapsed, forming a giant caldera 30 miles ( 45 km) acro0ss, 45 miles (75 km) long, and several thoudand feet deep. Eventually the caldera was filled with lava.
Scientists believe the canyon formed after this eruption, and after the subsequent Canyon Rhyoolite lava flow, which occurred about 484.000 years ago.