Balanced Rock facts for kids
Balanced Rock is a super famous and amazing rock formation found in Arches National Park. This park is located in Grand County, Utah, in the United States. You can easily spot Balanced Rock right next to the park's main road. It's about 9.2 miles (14.8 km) from the park entrance. It's one of the few big rock features you can see clearly from the road.
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What Makes Balanced Rock Special?
Balanced Rock is a giant rock that looks like it's carefully balanced on a smaller base. It's one of the most popular sights in Arches National Park. Many people visit each year to see this incredible natural wonder. It's a great example of how nature can create amazing sculptures over time.
How Big is Balanced Rock?
This impressive rock stands very tall! The total height of Balanced Rock is 128 feet (39 meters). That's about as tall as a 12-story building! The top part, which looks like it's balancing, is 55 feet (16.75 meters) high. This makes it the biggest balancing rock of its kind in the park.
It's also incredibly heavy! Balanced Rock weighs about the same as 27 huge blue whales. Imagine all that weight sitting on such a small base! It's a true marvel of nature.
A Rock's Little Brother
Did you know Balanced Rock once had a smaller "sibling"? It was called "Chip-Off-the-Old-Block." Sadly, this smaller rock formation collapsed during the winter of 1975–76. Over time, wind and water wear away at these rocks. Scientists believe that Balanced Rock will also eventually collapse, but hopefully not for a very long time!
Exploring Balanced Rock
If you visit Arches National Park, you can get a closer look at Balanced Rock. There is a short walking trail that goes all the way around the base of the rock. This trail lets you see the rock from different angles and appreciate its massive size. It's a fun and easy walk for everyone.
