This geographically widespread formation reaches a thickness of 2,200 feet in Zion NP and consists almost entirely of desert sand dunes and has two sets of lines forming the checkerboard pattern. The horizontal lines, called cross bedding, represent layers of wind-blown sand that built up into sand dunes. These dunes were then buried, and the sand grains glued together by calcite and iron oxide to form sandstone.
The vertical lines are less common. They are shallow cracks that result from stress and erosion on the rock surface and were caused by expansion, contraction and temperature changes. I think I have this fairly correct geology wise, but nonetheless, it is interesting to view if you are in the park and worth the time to view.

[Cee Cee]

that's something you don't see often (can't say I've ever seen that) interesting shots Bob, also interesting how we have to increase our own knowledge to be able to describe some of the things we photograph, nice shots btw.
cheers

[stormtech]

Very interesting Bob!

Without the commentary I would have never figured out why the pattern was there. Also what stuck out for me, is a couple of trees growing right out of the rock.

[Bruce Clark]

Fascinating structure. Thanks for sharing.

[Jacquot]

Very nice, definitely worth a visit.

[AussieTrev]

I enjoyed the explanation as much as your photos of the formation.

[Sailor]

Cool, brother Bob. The vertical lines are remarkable and the regularity of the crosshatch look equally so.

Jer

[baro-nite]

I've never seen that wide view of the Mesa -- what an amazing place. Great job with both of these.

[tessfully]

Great explanation making the photos all the more interesting. Thank you so much for sharing. The trees growing out of the cracks amaze me...

[slowpez]

Ah, Zion, another favorite of ours. Nice shots Bob. Especially like the second one.

[Bob Harris]

that's something you don't see often (can't say I've ever seen that) interesting shots Bob, also interesting how we have to increase our own knowledge to be able to describe some of the things we photograph, nice shots btw.
cheers

I've really learned a lot about geology the last couple of years. I try and research all of the areas we visit.

[Bob Harris]

Very interesting Bob!

Without the commentary I would have never figured out why the pattern was there. Also what stuck out for me, is a couple of trees growing right out of the rock.

Stan, some of the pine trees are fairly large. I wouldn't think there would be enough moisture but they all looked very healthy.

[Bob Harris]

Fascinating structure. Thanks for sharing.

thanks Bruce, glad you enjoyed the view from Utah

[Bob Harris]

Cool, brother Bob. The vertical lines are remarkable and the regularity of the crosshatch look equally so.

Jer

This is certainly an attention getter Jer, lots of people stopping and taking photos. Zion is a wonderful place to visit.

[WillH]

Me too Bob! I'll never get to visit the places you're sharing, and the information is great! Appricate the fine photography and your efforts to post the research! Thanks!