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Desert east of Leeds, UT. Looking toward Zion National Park.
This view of the desert is from an old mine dump that my boys and I hiked up to. I had stopped to take the previous picture of the caveman Batman figure, so we didn’t find the mine shaft right away. My kiddos found the opening right before me. It had been closed off with a wall of mortar and rocks from the dump. I wonder what they were after?
Silver Reef is only about 5 miles to the north of me from this spot. Silver Reef is the only place in the world that they have found rich silver deposits in sandstone. That may be what they were after over this way as well. Silver Reef was once a booming mining town because of the silver. At one time they even had a china town area. Now it is a rather artistic community where people go to retire. The famous sculptor, Jerry Anderson resides up there. I am sure this desert is an inspiration for his many creations.
Frank Lloyd Wright designed a house near here. I know the couple that live there. They gave me a tour once and it has high shelves all over inside with plants hanging down. The high windows and walls were inspired by the desert cliffs surrounding the area. It is a beautiful home that is much more interesting to look at than your standard run-of-the-mill suburban stucco house.
The desert never ceases to amaze me. The colorful landscapes are even more colorful up close. The reds turn into many shades of red, orange, and white streaks. The sandstone in areas is what they call picture sandstone because of all the beautiful striations that make it look like a desert scene itself. I am glad I have the opportunity to live in such a beautiful part of the world and that I get to experience it with my boys on at least a weekly basis. When my other kiddos get a little older we will be able to get out and enjoy this expansive place together as a family!