Virgin River
1872
2006
Description:
Plate 1211X. Virgin River 1872 – 2006 Viewed northwest up the Virgin River below the mouth of Birch Creek in Zion National Park. On the skyline are Abraham and Isaac of the Three Patriarchs. The river has removed the large boulders seen in the 1872 image. The river also undercut the toe of the slope on the left causing the lower portion of that hillside to fall into the stream. A number of boulders were also rolled-down the slope on the right when the park road was constructed up Zion Canyon. In addition, cottonwood and boX elder have increased in height. Due to these changes, relocation of the original camera station was impossible and the retake was made from the nearest open area that could be safely reached. Pinyon and juniper have increased in the distance. Cottonwood seedlings and saplings are common along this section of the Virgin River because mule deer seldom venture into this steep, narrow defile - - also see Plate 1212X.
Photo Information:
Original photograph taken by John Hillers (No. 594) in 1872; retake by Charles E. Kay on June 7, 2006 - - Photo No. 5640-36. Original photograph held by the U.S. Geological Survey Photographic Library, Denver, CO.
Vegetative Community:
Riparian, Pinyon, Juniper
Location:
South West: Section 11, Range 10 West, Township 41 South; UTM 326100 E, 4122600 N; elevation 4,150 ft.