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All the United States New Mexico Ramah Woodpecker Arch

Woodpecker Arch

This bird-shaped rock formation defies gravity, time, and classification.

Ramah, New Mexico

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Rick Brown
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Woodpecker Arch from the east.   rickbbiking / Atlas Obscura User
Woodpecker Arch from atop El Morro.   rickbbiking / Atlas Obscura User
Woodpecker Arch from the west.   rickbbiking / Atlas Obscura User
Woodpecker Arch with the sun behind it.   rickbbiking / Atlas Obscura User
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About

This enormous rock formation on the northern face of El Morro National Monument in New Mexico resembles a large woodpecker hanging from the side of a tree. As a result, it has earned the name Woodpecker Arch because of the vertical arch-like feature. 

Due to its odd shape and form, the Natural Bridge and Arch Society has had a difficult time classifying Woodpecker Arch. It's considered a true natural arch, but defining its taxonomy is difficult. Essentially, it is deemed an irregular natural arch. 

Regardless how it is listed, Woodpecker Arch defies both gravity and time by hanging precariously from the northern face of the monument's stone edifice.

Related Tags

Rock Formations Rocks Geological Oddities Arches Geology

Know Before You Go

Woodpecker Arch can be readily viewed from either direction on a 1.8-mile loop trail. If possible, be sure to follow the entire loop trail as El Morro National Monument and surrounding scenery are spectacular. The Inscription Rock portion of the trail is hard-surfaced. 

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Added By

rickbbiking

Published

October 9, 2019

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  • https://newmexico.hometownlocator.com/maps/feature-map,ftc,1,fid,1679019,n,woodpecker%20arch.cfm
  • http://www.naturalarches.org/db/nabs/irreg1.htm
Woodpecker Arch
el Morro Parking Lot
Ramah, New Mexico, 87321
United States
35.039636, -108.345081
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Nearby Places

Inscription Rock at El Morro

Ramah, New Mexico

miles away

Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary

Ramah, New Mexico

miles away

Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano

Grants, New Mexico

miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Ramah

Ramah

New Mexico

Places 3

Nearby Places

Inscription Rock at El Morro

Ramah, New Mexico

miles away

Wild Spirit Wolf Sanctuary

Ramah, New Mexico

miles away

Ice Cave and Bandera Volcano

Grants, New Mexico

miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Ramah

Ramah

New Mexico

Places 3

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