Park officials at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area are reporting the geologic feature popularly known as “The Toilet Bowl” has collapsed. No injuries were reported as result of the collapse. While the exact cause of the collapse is unknown, changing water levels and erosion from wave action are suspected to have contributed to its fall.
Rock Creek Bay in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Statement:
National Park Service Rangers have confirmed the collapse of a frequently visited arch in Rock Creek Bay in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah. The “Double Arch” geologic feature has also been referred to as the “Toilet Bowl”, “Crescent Pool”, and “Hole in the Roof”. No injuries were reported resulting from the collapse, which occurred on August 8, 2024.
Double Arch was formed from 190-million-year-old Navajo sandstone originating in the late Triassic to early Jurassic periods. Since formation, this fine-grained sand feature has been subject to spalling and erosion from weather, wind, and rain. Changing water levels and erosion from wave action is suspected of contributing to the ultimate collapse of the arch.
“This event serves as a reminder of our responsibility and need to protect the mineral resources surrounding Lake Powell. 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.” -Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Superintendent Michelle Kerns
Catastrophic erosion events are not unheard of at Lake Powell. This rockslide near Antelope Point Marina was caught on video back in 2022.
