![]() You view the sculpture while traveling past it on Interstate 80 at 80 miles per hour stopping along this interstate is permited only in cases of emergency and no provision have been made for a pulloff for motorists at the site. The sculpture is located on the Utah salt flats along the stretch of interstate known as the “Wendover Death Strip” because the drive across the barren land is so monotonous motorists have been known to doze off and not make it to their destination. It is 87-feet tall and was built in the mid 1980s (dedicated in 1986). It's official title is Metaphor: The Tree of Utah. But a little farther to the north and west, low mountains break this neverending flat landscape and look as if they were floating.When this sculpture was first created by Swedish architect, painter and sculptor Karl Momen, we knew it as the Tree of Life. To the east and south, the flats extend seemingly forever. The best spot to view the Salt Flats is located along I-80, east of Wendover, where you can also find a rest stop, offering restrooms and water. However the heat has its benefits as well-when it gets really hot, heat waves and salty soil can create amazing mirages. ![]() Note, that in summer the temperature rises to 40☌. No vegetation grows on this extremely salty soil and the climate here is desertlike, critical for any animals or plants. ![]() In case of thunderstorms that also occur in the dry season, the area gets closed for vehicles. The water evaporates and the wind creates a perfectly smooth and hard surface again. If you want to ride across the flats, you're welcome to come between late July through October. ![]() Therefore, vehicles aren't allowed to the area. ![]() In winter and spring, the flat is covered with water, which makes salt crust softer and particularly vulnerable. ![]()
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