Large geological feature known as the ‘Double Arch’ and the ‘Toilet Bowl’ collapses in southern Utah

PAGE, Arizona — A large geologic feature in southern Utah known as Double Arch, Hole in the Roof and sometimes Toilet Bowl has collapsed, National Park Service officials said Friday. No injuries were reported.

The popular arch in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area fell on thursdayand park rangers suspect that changing water levels and wave erosion in Lake Powell contributed to its demise.

Michelle Kerns, manager of the recreation area on the Utah-Arizona border, said the collapse is a reminder that the mineral resources around the lake must be protected.

“These features have a lifespan that can be affected or damaged by human-induced interventions,” she said in a statement.

The arch is formed from 190 million-year-old Navajo Sandstone, which dates from the Late Triassic to Early Jurassic periods. The fine-grained sandstone has withstood erosion from weather, wind and rain, the statement said.

The recreation area covers almost 5,180 square kilometres and is popular with water sports enthusiasts and hikers.