High above turkey vultures or a golden eagle occasionally soar into view. Geology Palm Canyon is cut through a formation of rhyolite, a volcanic rock. Water, following cracks in the rhyolite, has eroded this canyon to its present shape. The side canyons, where the palms are located, are now being formed through the same process. If you have time, walk further up the canyon and look closely at the rocks you pass.
Some large boulders appear to be made up of many smaller rocks cemented together.
These rocks are breccia, another volcanic rock, which has fallen into the canyon from the breccia formations high above Palm Canyon. The downhill pace will be faster as you return to your car. Notice the relative coolness as you walk in the shade of the narrow canyon. Look out across the sunshine-filled valley. It will be much warmer when you get to your car, even in the winter.