Travel-World Photography
The Arizona geography is very diverse. In general, it a plateau at an elevation between 1500 and 2300 m. The climate is hot and dry, with sparse vegetation as a result. However, there are many variations to this picture. Driving across he landscape, there are hills that have withstood the erosion of the sedimented layers around, resulting in the famous buttes and other structures.
The Painted Desert is known for its brilliant and varied colors. These include the more common red rock, but also shades of lavender. The rock contain iron and manganese, which can oxidize into reddish colors. However, when the water table is high there is less oxygen in the ground and that turns those deposits blue or green. This goes on and on.
The area has been settled by Native Indians for ages. On of the more well known is the Montezuma Castle. This is a house built into a high cliff. There are also caves for dwelling carved out of the sheer rock face. However, after a period og severe draught, the settlement had to be abandoned.
