World Famous Tourist Attraction 'Double Arch' Toilet Bowl in Utah National Park collapses

The Double Arch was composed of 190-million-year-old Navajo sandstone, dating back to the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods.Photo byNPS

The National Park Service (NPS) has confirmed the collapse of the Double Arch, a popular geologic feature in Rock Creek Bay within Utah's Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The arch, also known by various nicknames such as the "Toilet Bowl," "Crescent Pool," and "Hole in the Roof," collapsed on August 8, 2024. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.

The Double Arch was composed of 190-million-year-old Navajo sandstone, dating back to the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods. Over the centuries, this fine-grained sandstone had been gradually eroded by natural elements such as weather, wind, and rain. The ongoing erosion, combined with fluctuating water levels and wave action, is believed to have contributed to the arch's eventual collapse.

Michelle Kerns, Superintendent of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, emphasized the importance of preserving the area's natural resources. “This event serves as a reminder of our responsibility and need to protect the mineral resources surrounding Lake Powell,” Kerns stated. “These features have a life span that can be influenced or damaged by manmade interventions. While we don’t know what caused this collapse, we will continue to maintain our resource protection efforts on Lake Powell for future generations to enjoy. Please enjoy our resources but leave no trace.”