Cosmic Ashtray, Geological formation in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Utah, USA
Cosmic Ashtray is a scenic viewpoint in Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument featuring a tall central rock column surrounded by fine orange sand within a natural sandstone bowl. The formation was shaped through erosion and sits in a remote part of the Utah desert landscape.
Wind and flowing water gradually carved the sandstone over thousands of years to create this formation. The ongoing erosion process continues to shape the structure and the surrounding landscape.
Photographers and hikers traverse unmarked paths across sandstone terrain to document this natural formation in the remote Utah wilderness.
The hike to this viewpoint requires good navigation skills and plenty of water since there are no marked trails or facilities. Visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and allow extra time for the journey.
Visitors can descend into the formation using natural and carved rock holds that lead down to the sandy basin at the bottom. These handholds and footholds were formed both naturally and through repeated use by hikers over time.
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