USA Mosaic Canyon, Death Valley National Park, Nevada
Mosaic Canyon, and other canyons at Death Valley National Park, was formed during the Palaeozoic Era. Over time, the sediments deposited by the sea compressed into limestone. Then pressure and heat transformed the limestone into the "marble" walls we see today (it is actually cool and smooth to the touch, like marble). The different striations in the walls are quite interesting and beautiful, as well.
The most photographed section of the canyon is the lower entrance where my photo was taken.
The most photographed section of the canyon is the lower entrance where my photo was taken.
Photography Tips
We got to the entrance of the canyon just after sunrise and the light hitting the wavy canyon walls helped to illuminate the darker sections of the entrance.
A tripod is not necessary, but recommended. I took my photo hand-held with a Nikon 24-120mm f/4 lens.
A tripod is not necessary, but recommended. I took my photo hand-held with a Nikon 24-120mm f/4 lens.
Travel Information
Mosaic Canyon is about 2.5 miles west of Stovepipe Wells, at foothills of the Tucki Mountains. The road to the parking area is a hard-pack gravel road with some large rocks in some parts. The national park's website advises that the road is suitable for cars, SUV's and trucks, but not for buses and large RV's. There is plenty of parking available.
The entire hike is 4 miles (out and back) with an elevation change of 750 ft and is moderate - to slightly difficult. However, from the parking lot to the entrance of the canyon it is approx. 1 mile of easy hiking.
The entire hike is 4 miles (out and back) with an elevation change of 750 ft and is moderate - to slightly difficult. However, from the parking lot to the entrance of the canyon it is approx. 1 mile of easy hiking.
Spot Type
Outdoor
Crowd Factor
A decent amount of people
Best Timing
Sunrise in fall
Sunrise & Sunset
06:34 - 16:36
| current local time: 05:19
Photo Themes
Canyons
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