Every now and then nature puts on a show by decorating the planet with uncanny, yet beautiful attractions. And these next rock formations are no different when it comes to creating a buzz.
These mind-boggling arranngements are quite the show-stopper for visitors wanting a taste of the bizarre. That's why we at TravelPulse have searched the globe to bring you the seven stone-cold attractions you have to see to believe.
Coyote Buttes, AZ and UT: The Wave
Every surfer will want to ride this wave although water is nowhere in sight. The Wave is a geological phenomenon of kaleidoscopic spiral bands carved into the Coyote Buttes located between Arizona and Utah. When the sunlight hits this extraordinary sandstone formation, a rainbow dominates the landscape creating a beautifully woven rugged carpet perfect for the ultimate hiking adventure.
The Wave was formed during the Jurassic age thanks to erosion dynamically presented in the "U" shape of interchanging elements etched into its rock wall. The Wave is such an awesome sight a permit is needed to venture along its slopes. But when Mother Nature has taken time out of her busy schedule to create a marvel so unique, you'd want to preserve her handiwork as much as possible too.
China: Zhangye Danxia Landform
Not all mountainsides are boring in color. Some, like China's Zhangye Danxia Landform, are canvases painted by a bizarre supernatural force. Millions of years ago, red sandstone and minerals created the streaks of color adorning this rugged mountainous terrain.
On a clear day reds, blues, yellows, greens and oranges illuminate its deep valleys like a rainbow in the sky. The technicolor psychedlia of the Zhangue Danxia Landform means it is always ready for a photo op.
Wyoming: Devils Tower National Monument
Whether one chooses to believe the evil spirit concocts his master plans here, the Devils Tower is arguably Wyoming's most prized possession. After all, it became the first national monument of the United States in 1906, and continues to pique the interests of visitors from across the nation and beyond. The immaculate rock formation rises out of the Black Hills at a height over 1,200 feet with columns and ridges making it an exhilarating climb on the way to its flattop peak.
Once you've reached the top, the natural beauty surrounding the Devils Towers allows the climber to fully comprehend why this site is such a beloved treasure for the Lakota tribe and other cultures.
Although many geologists are still in doubt about how the Tower was formed, its exquisite facade is worthy of discovery because the trails of rock located at its surface indicate one day this iconic gem will be a thing of the past.
China: Immortal Bridge
Photo courtesy of Wikipedia
You'll want to think twice about climbing this bridge unless you have a death wish. That's because it is mainly composed of three huge boulders that appear to be stuck in the crevasses of Mount Tai in China. The rock-inspired bridge seems to be holding onto the mountain for dear life in fear of falling into the boundless valley it mysteriously hangs over.
But since it has reportedly been dangling here for quite some centuries, the hike up Mount Tai is an experience you will never forget. And who knows, maybe you'll be the one to witness the Immortal Bridge finally taking its plunge to the abyss below.
Norway: Kjeragbolten
We've proven that some boulders refuse to become falling victims, and the same goes for Kjeragbolten, a huge rock trapped in the gorges of the Kjerag Mountain in Norway. The boulder measures about 5m2, and provides amazing views of the Lysefjord for thrill seekers wanting to witness this fascinating attraction for themselves.
Not only can visitors view Kjeragbolten by trailing up the mountain, but stand on top the boulder as well - if they don't mind being suspended over 3,000 feet in the air. But if you are able to master its vertical feats by triumphantly standing on Kjeragbolten, you may be able to conquer the world.
Myanmar: Golden Rock
It's not every day we see a gold boulder sporting a pagoda on the top, so the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, also known as the Golden Rock, is definitely worth a mention on this list. During November to March, the stone is visited by Buddhists since it is a popular pilgrimage site because a strand of Buddha's hair is believed to be tucked underneath it. But even as worshippers are seen praying to the god, the Golden Rock is an attraction that you just can't ignore.
It reflects a gleaming gold color that is painted with gold leaves by Buddhist followers. It also defies all odds by miraculously clenching onto Mt. Kyaiktiyo, appearing as though one strong gust of wind will send the huge rock tumbling to the ground. And at the top of the Golden Rock sits a pagoda, whose mind-boggling location has made it one of Myanmar's most important religious destinations.
New Zealand: Split Apple Rock
No one can explain when this bizarre rock became sliced like an apple, which adds to its geological appeal. Although the Split Apple Rock is nestled in the heart of the Tasman Bay, curious visitors don't mind getting wet just to climb inside its spectacular rock walls.
The Split Apple Rock is one of the Abel Tasman National Park's main attractions, and justifiably so by the way its unique shape juts out of the water. If you're intrigued by natural findings this unearthly crater has it all - plus where else can you find a cut fruit made of stone?
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