Behind the Shot
Zion National Park stands proudly at the intersection of three major ecosystems—the Mojave Desert, the Colorado Plateau and the Great Basin—enticing the exploration of its towering cliff faces and sandstone mountain summits. This desert oasis is a popular summer vacation spot, showcasing spectacular landscapes and a unique array of plants and animals. Among its most iconic features is the Watchman—a treasure of the American Southwest. The imposing sandstone spire stands at 6,545 feet and guards the southern portion of a jagged ridgeline that runs along the east side of the Zion Valley. Its cliffs of vivid pink and ruby soar into a brilliant blue sky above a scrub woodland of juniper, piñon and sagebrush. Photographer Chris Henry captured this image one autumn when the intense colors of the vegetation on the valley floor were fully illuminated. It was Chris’ first day in Zion National Park and a signal of the epic canyon adventure he would encounter. Position this print of the Watchman in any room to serve as a daily reminder of nature’s grandeur—perfect for those who love exploration and the serenity of the wild.
