The Venturi effect phenomenon created the coral pink sand dunes. The wind is funnelled through a notch between the Moquith and Moccasin mountains, thereby increasing the wind velocity. Above all, the speed of the wind gets to a point where it can carry sand grains from the eroding Navajo sandstone. The wind velocity decreases when it reaches the open valley. This consequently causes the sand to be deposited. Additionally, the dunes are estimated at 10,000 to 15,000 years old.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Coral Pink Sand Dunes
Dunes Geology
The geology of the dunes is an intriguing subject. The sand comes from Navajo sandstone from the geologic period call Middle Jurassic. Additionally, the same iron oxides and minerals that give us spectacular red rock country are responsible for this landscape of coral pink sand.
Sand, high winds, and a unique influence upon the wind are the three factors creating the dunes. Also, the park opened as a state park in 1963. The park’s elevation is 6,000 feet.
Flora & Fauna
Coral Pink Sand Dunes support a diverse population of insects. For instance, the Coral Pink tiger beetle is only found here. Additionally, small ponds created from melting snow support amphibians such as salamanders and toads.
The park also contains a rare plant known as Welsh’s milkweed (Asclepias welshii).
Coral Pink Sand Dunes Activities
ATV riding is popular in the park. About 90% of the dunes are open for riding. Additionally, all of the dunes are open for hiking and just playing in the sand.
In addition to ATV and hiking, visitors can go hiking and camping. Others will find horseback riding and wildlife watching very interesting.
The park is near the town of Kanab, approximately 310 miles south of Salt Lake City. From US Hwy 89 north of Kanab, follow the signs west to the State Park.