Navajo Mountain stands as a majestic testament to geological history, rising proudly as a freestanding laccolith, its dome-shaped form crafted by igneous rock intrusions that upheaved sedimentary layers. Enveloped in layers of sediment, the core of this mountain reveals the intricate dance of geological forces sculpted by millennia of erosion.
At an elevation of approximately 10,388 feet (3,166 m), Navajo Mountain's peak is adorned with Dakota Sandstone, a relic of the Cretaceous Period, dating back 66-138 million years. But beyond its geological grandeur, Navajo Mountain holds profound cultural significance for the Navajo people, known to them as Naatsisaan, or "Earth Head" and "Pollen Mountain." It serves as a cornerstone in the rich tapestry of Navajo origin stories, intimately intertwined with the sacred landscape of their heritage.
In the wake of historical upheavals, including the military conflicts of the 19th century and subsequent political transformations, the Navajo Nation continues to assert its sovereignty over this cherished land. Despite the encroachment of modernity, with landmarks like Rainbow Bridge National Monument and Lake Powell altering the physical landscape, Navajo Mountain remains a symbol of resilience and cultural preservation.
Captured on a crisp late winter afternoon, my photograph encapsulates the timeless allure of Navajo Mountain. Against a backdrop of stormy skies, the mountain stands cloaked in snow, while shards of sunlight dance across the desert landscape, casting an ethereal glow. The juxtaposition of the rugged terrain and the towering butte bathed in golden light evokes a sense of timelessness, inviting viewers to ponder the enduring legacy of this sacred land and imagine the vistas witnessed by generations past. In this image, I sought to convey not just the physical beauty of Navajo Mountain, but also the spiritual connection it embodies for the Navajo people—a connection that transcends time and space, resonating with the soul of the land.
Date & Time | February 7, 2023: 6:50pm |
Location | Navajo Mountain, Utah |
Coordinates | 37.034813, -110.867247 |
Focal Length | 500mm |
Aperture | f/11 |
Shutter | 1/640 |
ISO | 800 |
Num of Exposures | 200 |
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Total Pixels | 713,542,849 px |
Width | 44,711 px |
Height | 15,959 px |
Aspect Ratio | 2.8 : 1 |
Date & Time | February 7, 2023: 6:50pm |
Location | Navajo Mountain, Utah |
Coordinates | 37.034813, -110.867247 |
Focal Length | 500mm |
Aperture | f/11 |
Shutter | 1/640 |
ISO | 800 |
Num of Exposures | 200 |
Here are some rough guidelines for this specific photo: