| (10-7-04)
On a Thursday, after getting out of our
GPS for GIS class early, my friend Travis, his roommate,
and I decided to go to a place we had heard about, but never
seen. The Lemon Squeezers is located at the canyon near
the Bangs Canyon Staging Area in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Geologically, the Lemon Squeezers is a
large group of sandstone slabs that have fractured off the
Wingate Sandstone. Through what is probably a freeze/thaw
cycle, the slabs have been pushed away from the main face
of the Wingate without falling over. So, a large crack system
is created. Inside the cracks deformation bands are present
(most likelyDB2s (expansional). Also, examples of plumose
and hackles are present in some locations indicating Mode
I fractures were the cause of these cracks. Over time parts
of this crack have been filled in with dirt and debris which
have created an angled floor which leads up to the top of
the Wingate formation. Through navigating these cracks you
can work your way up to the top of the canyon and it provides
a great overlook.
People can work their way to the top without
using any ropes. However, as with any rock climbing/caving
helmets would be advisable. You never know when someone
above you could knock a small rock down on your head. :-)
Including the drive from downtown Grand Junction,
the hike can be completed in as little as three hours, but
four hours would allow for more exploring to be done. |
Please click images for
larger view. Email me if you would like a high-res copy
of a specific picture. (All photos by Evan, Travis or Andy.)
The start of the fracture system.
All images that make it appear light in the cracks were
taken with the flash on. There are places in the fracture
system where there is very little light. No flashlights
are necessary, but going in the middle of the day provides
enough light to see.
This is one of the wider areas in the fractures.
The view over the first overlook. Caution of the bat guano.
This picture is indicative of the lighting you'll experience.
Plenty of natural light once your eyes adjust, but terrible
for taking pictures with.
The 2nd overlook. Caution, much bat guano is present here
as well.
Another one of the wider sections. I am standing about 40
feet from the start of the fracture systems in this image.
A view of sunlight!
By far this is one of the harder rocks to get to the top
of. Basic rock climbing skills make it easier to get someone
to the top and then help the rest of the group up to the
top of this rock.
The view from the top of the Lemon Squeezers. Well worth
the climb up through the fractures.
Ahhh! I got stuck in this little crack I tried to hide in.
Don't go here!
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