Free Topo Maps of Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Download free topo maps of Rainbow Bridge National Monument. Use the adjoining 7.5 minute quadrangle legend to locate the Utah maps you need.

Adjoining 7.5' Quadrangle Legend

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  1. Northwest Topo Map: Navajo Point, UT
  2. North Topo Map: Nasja Mesa, UT
  3. Northeast Topo Map: Wilson Creek, UT
  4. West Topo Map: Cathedral Canyon, UT
  5. Topo Map: Rainbow Bridge, UT
  6. East Topo Map: Navajo Begay, UT
  7. Southwest Topo Map: West Canyon Creek, AZ
  8. South Topo Map: Chaiyahi Flat, AZ
  9. Southeast Topo Map: Chaiyahi Rim NE, AZ
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Rainbow Bridge National Monument

Rainbow Bridge National Monument is located in the state of Utah by the Navajo Mountain. Originally this geologic marvel was established as a Monument to preserve the pristine state of this unbelievable bridge carved out of sandstone through the erosive elements of "Eccentric Stream Erosion", water eating through the rock throughout the millennia. Nonnezoshe or "rainbow turned to stone" as named by the Paiute and Navajo, is imbued with religious and cultural significance. Long before this region became known to the European cultures, this land was inhabited by indigenous people who viewed this monolithic formation as a sacred place that only the gods could have created. Today in consideration of the Indian tribes and the Navajo people who live in the region, the National Park Service asks visitors not to walk under the amazing arched bridge in respect of the Indian beliefs. There are only two methods of reaching the Monument, one is by boat and the second is by hiking through rough canyon country, which is only advised for experienced hikers, and for those who are adept and prepared for flash floods that are prevalent in the region. Additionally a permit is required from the Navajo Nation whose land must be traversed to reach the rough trails leading to Rainbow Bridge. Tour boats make the two hour trip to reach the Monument where water based activities and hiking to the observation area can be enjoyed. There are no lodging facilities at the Monument; however Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is adjacent to Rainbow Bridge for camping. Nothing remains static on earth; as such everything is always in a state of change. In a geologic "moment" Rainbow Bridge will someday collapse from the forces of erosion, but for now we can enjoy the time spent gazing upon this breathtaking formation spanning 275 feet across Bridge Creek. The formation is a mathematical wonder, with close to a perfect parabolic arch that is 42 feet thick and 33 feet wide. It is no wonder that this majestic bridge that soars towards the sky was and still is revered by the Native Americans.