La Ventana Natural Arch, Natural sandstone arch in Cibola County, United States
La Ventana Natural Arch is a sandstone formation that rises about 135 feet into the air, shaped by wind and water wearing away the rock over millions of years in New Mexico. The opening is large enough that you can see sky and desert landscape clearly through the gap in the stone.
The formation developed from prehistoric times when ancient seas deposited layers of sediment that gradually transformed into the sandstone visible today. These layers built up long before the current desert landscape took shape.
Local communities have recognized this formation as a natural landmark for orientation and travel through the desert landscape. The arch serves as a visible gathering point that appears in the way people understand and navigate this part of the region.
The arch can be reached from a paved parking area next to Highway 117, followed by a short walk on a well-maintained gravel path. The walk is easy and straightforward with no steep climbs to reach the formation.
The opening frames views of sky and distant rock formations in ways that shift throughout the day as light changes. This natural window creates different visual impressions depending on when you visit and where you stand.
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