Forces of Nature

As we explored the mesa above Nine Mile Canyon before our descent, we noticed an unusual triangle of rocks.
Here it is up close:

And here are views taken from below:

Can you imagine how much geologic force was required to disrupt those sedimentary layers? 
The top of the mesa was once covered by an inland lake.  There are ripple marks on many of the rocks:

Steve struck a pose under a rock overhang:

This rock formation looks a lot like a picnic table:

From down in Nine Mile Canyon, we noticed the pillar standing next to the cliffs on the left:

Steve found several snakeskins, but no snakes:

The reptiles had moved into winter quarters on this cold November day.
We completed our trek with an hour to spare before sunset.