Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

15th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Artist's Palette

The landscape always has a story to tell if you listen. Geological formations like the Artist's Palette in Death Valley National Park reveal the history of the Earth--well before man was roaming. Here, mineral rich sediments underwent hydrothermal alteration from ancient volcanic activity, precipitating out colorful mineral deposits leaving the hillside stunning.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2017
Date Uploaded: 12.2017
Photo Location: California, United States of America
Camera: NIKON D7100
Copyright: © Mitch Warnick