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When the sand dunes travel forward, they reveal these arched roots, which are really easy to trip on
Source: White Sands National Park (via Facebook)
Photos: Courtesy
Watch out Arches National Park, we have arches at White Sands National Park, too! We bring you our versions of Delicate Arch, Double Arch, and Landscape Arch. Our arches may not be made out of sandstone, but they are in sand so… it’s kind of the same thing… ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Photos: Courtesy National Park Service
Jokes aside, these wacky arches in White Sands National Park are actually roots from Rio Grande cottonwood trees! Rio Grande cottonwood trees are adamant about finding water, and when their roots are covered by sand dunes, they make any journey necessary to find the water they need to survive. When the sand dunes travel forward, they reveal these arched roots, which are really easy to trip on (our rangers don’t trip, we’re professionals, we’ve just heard this…). Anyways…these arches showcase the dedication of the Rio Grande cottonwood tree to reach below the sand into the shallow water table to access the water they need to survive. These arched roots are further evidence of the Rio Grande cottonwood’s reputation of being a beacon in the desert for those in search of water. When in desperate need of water, humans and cottonwoods are not that different: we will do anything we can to find water or die trying.
With that in mind, it’s getting hot out! If you are coming to White Sands National Park this summer, prepare with all the water you will need for your journey. We recommend a gallon of water per person, per day. Be like a Rio Grande cottonwood tree: hydrate, don’t diedrate.
Join us for Joe’s last post for Through the Eyes of a Volunteer:
“As I discussed previously, pedestals are eroded by the wind. As I hike around, I see these pedestals almost ground down but still hanging on for dear life. Standing in defiance, but the wind will eventually win, returning them to sand. Some are mere inches tall, while others are a couple of feet. One of the secrets White Sands has shown me as I continue to explore. I encourage any volunteers reading this to share your ‘Eyes’ on your social media page for your park or forest.”
NPS Photos/Joe Elsen
