La Garita Natural Arch

About the experience

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A visit to La Garita Natural Arch offers a unique and awe-inspiring journey through geological history. Here’s what to expect:

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• Unique Formation: Unlike most arches formed from uplifted sandstone, La Garita Natural Arch was created within a magma intrusion called a volcanic dike. This geological marvel stands 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide, formed by lava from the Summer Coon volcanic complex about 30 million years ago.
• Scenic Views: The arch provides breathtaking views across the San Luis Valley to the Sangre de Cristo mountains and the Great Sand Dunes National Park. The hike to the arch is steep and more of a scramble, rewarding visitors with stunning vistas.
• Cultural Significance: The arch is a sacred site for the Jicarilla Apache and Ute tribes, still used for ceremonies today.

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It's a must-see for those seeking to understand the profound significance of natural and cultural history.