This is the second in a seven-part series on the national parks of southern Utah.
We left Mesa Verde and came to Arches National Park. We arrived late in the day, checked into our accommodations for the next four days (a tiny one-room cabin at Archview RV Resort, not far from the park), and ventured into nearby Moab to find some dinner. Moab is an interesting small town, very touristy. We were so busy exploring Arches and Canyonlands, we didn't have time to enjoy the town, but there were lots of restaurants to choose from and they were all delightful.
. . . but at this park, the arch formations steal the show. One of my favorites was this Double Arch.
We left Mesa Verde and came to Arches National Park. We arrived late in the day, checked into our accommodations for the next four days (a tiny one-room cabin at Archview RV Resort, not far from the park), and ventured into nearby Moab to find some dinner. Moab is an interesting small town, very touristy. We were so busy exploring Arches and Canyonlands, we didn't have time to enjoy the town, but there were lots of restaurants to choose from and they were all delightful.
Andrew, Eric, and Bob at Pasta Jay's Italian Restaurant, Moab, UT
The next morning, we awoke bright and early and headed to the park. Our first hike was to the popular Delicate Arch. Upfront disclaimer -- photographs greatly diminish the majesty of a place like Arches National Park. The only way to truly grasp the grandeur is to see the place in person. Highly recommended!
Delicate Arch
We saw many fascinating rock formations like this (below), massive monoliths of sandstone rock, weathered by water and wind and eons of time . . .
. . . and unbelievable structures like this Balanced Rock . . .
Look closely at the people scrambling over the rocks in the foreground, like ants. Gives you a perspective on the humongous size of these rocks.
They call these arches The Spectacles. They look like eyes.
The next morning, the guys hiked a strenuous 10-mile trail called Devil's Garden. (I enjoyed a quiet morning at the campground.) Andrew took these photos. They had a great time and were exhausted when they got back.
A high narrow ridge, with steep drop-offs on either side.
Like a window to the heavens.
One evening, we hiked through this dry creek bed. The setting sun adds drama to the beauty.
The sun setting through a small arch.
We were just getting started, so we didn't know it at the time, but Arches was high on all our lists of favorite parks.
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1 comment:
Me too, Steve. Hope to see you soon.
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