Kodachrome Basin

Story By: 

Don Fink

Kodachrome Basin was named for its rich array of colors. Any question? Photo by Don finkPossibly one of the finest color films ever produced was Eastman Kodak's Kodachrome. Invented in the 1930s, many will argue that this film has never been surpassed, even with today's excellent modern films and digital processes. Given this film's reputation for vivid colors and excellent resolution, it's an interesting testimony that in 1948, when a crew from National Geographic was photographing a little known valley east of Bryce Canyon, they named the area Kodachrome Valley.


The name stuck, and is now known as Kodachrome Basin State Park. Located a few miles east of Bryce Canyon on Highway 12, the well marked park is an easy to find day trip from Bryce. There is a campground at Kodachrome Basin, but it will not accommodate large RVs. Small RVs and tents should do well here, but for most, this destination is a great day trip.

There are several theories as to how these spires formed. The rock certainly hardened more than the surrounding rock and resisted erosion. Exactly how is open for debate. Photo by Don FinkThe geology of Kodachrome Basin is different from that of Bryce. Comprised mostly of Entrada and Navajo Sand stone, this area also features nearly 70 examples of a formation called a chimney, or spire. These towers of rock are thought to have formed either by liquefied sand triggered by earthquakes, or by sand filling in ancient springs. Whatever the cause, these spires formed as harder sandstone than the surrounding rock, and stood while all the rock around them eroded away.

There are several hiking trails at Kodachrome Basin, ranging from very short, paved, self-guided nature trails to more energetic walks with nearly 500 feet of vertical climb. Whatever your taste and ability, there's a walk here to suit your mood. Stop at the visitor center at the park entrance for detailed information about which trails are open.

Hiking trails are available for just about anyone, including this short, paved nature trail. Photo by don FinkOn your way to Kodachrome Basin, there's an excellent visitor center in Cannonville for the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. It's well marked and worth a stop if you have time.

Whether you go for just the day, or plan to camp at Kodachrome Basin, it's certain to be worth the trip. The rich and diverse landscape, especially in contrast to the different views available from Bryce Canyon are just another reason to plan a complete to this part of southern Utah.

 

»