Shiprock, a diatreme (volcanic plug), rises abruptly from the virtually level surrounding plain. The east face reflects morning sunlight while a wind-driven cloud clings to its 1700 foot summit. Located within the Navajo volcanic field, it is a classic geologically-distinct landform of the Colorado Plateau. The landforms of the Navajo volcanic field also figure prominently in the empirical knowledge and culture of the indigenous Navajo people. I camped at the base of this formation to be sure I was on site for the best light of morning. EF 28-78mm @ 65mm; f/16 @ 1/10 sec, ISO 100
