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So, what's so special about a big hole in the ground? Well, when that hole is 2.5 miles around and as deep as the Washington Monument is tall... it's a big deal. And, walking along the edge of this big hole is where I found myself this afternoon on my way to Prescott, AZ.
I've allowed myself a couple of extra days during my travel West so that I can stop and experience some of the wonders that our country has to offer. And, this is certainly worth the visit. Though not spectacular by our current Bruckheimer-movie-inspired expectations (after all, it is just a big hole), it is, nonetheless, impressive... and educational. :-)
Meteor Crater is a great example of what happens when space rocks impact with the planet Earth. There is evidence of numerous meteor impacts around the world, including North America's Gulf of Mexico (yes, that was formed by a meteor impact), and this one is far from the largest, but it is important in that it is probably the best preserved due to the dry conditions of the Arizona desert.
This crater is on private property, so it is most certainly a commercial venture (as evidenced by the $15 entrance fee), but it is cared for like a National Park. The crater is well protected, with access to the rim restricted to guided tours, and absolutely no public access into the bowl. I like that. Keep it the way it has always been so future generations can see it like it was. No railcars, no trams, no trails, and no destruction. Nothing but natural beauty.
What a great example of how to preserve a natural wonder while still allowing people to enjoy it. I think there's a lesson there...
For details on how the crater was formed, visit http://www.meteorcrater.com/eventsfun/exptheimp.htm
Tomorrow... Overland Expo. What is it and why am I here?
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