Sailing Stone. © Copyright 2018 G Dan Mitchell – all rights reserved.

The sailing stones of the San Joaquin

Many are familiar with the “sailing stones” or “gliding stones” found on a well-know, remote playa at Death Valley National Park. Getting to that location takes a bit of effort — a 55 mile round trip on an awful road, and typically one wants to be there at sunrise and/or sunset. I’ve been there quite a few times – though I no longer go. Why not? A combination of being interested in the many other compelling locations in that park and the fact that too many visitors to the place have caused some damage that mars the landscape and the experience.

But I think I’ve found an alternative! This location — which I won’t name, given the obvious aesthetic appeal of this, uh, “landscape” — seems to also feature at least one sailing stone. And an out house. I’m not sure how to explain the appearance of the phenomenon at this location, but perhaps someone can investigate as the focus of their graduate project…

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G Dan Mitchell is a California photographer and visual opportunist. His book, “California’s Fall Color: A Photographer’s Guide to Autumn in the Sierra” is available from Heyday Books and Amazon.
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