Buttes of the Cross, Sandstone buttes in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah
The Buttes of the Cross are two sandstone peaks located in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, sitting roughly half a mile apart from each other. Both formations rise substantially above the surrounding landscape, creating striking vertical elements visible from many vantage points in the region.
Explorer John Wesley Powell named these formations during his Geographic Expedition in 1869, initially viewing them as a single butte from Labyrinth Canyon. The naming reflects early exploration and mapping of this remote area of the canyon country.
The first climbing achievements occurred in 1987 on the North Butte by Paul Horton and Lynn Watson, followed by the South Butte ascent in 1994.
These formations are located roughly a mile outside Canyonlands National Park boundaries and remain relatively remote from main roads. Viewing them typically requires driving on unpaved roads and walking from established vantage points to get the best perspective.
When viewed from certain angles near Labyrinth Canyon, the two peaks merge into a single shape resembling a cross due to visual perspective. This optical effect inspired their distinctive name and makes the specific vantage point particularly worth seeking out.
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