Arches National Park, Utah – Nature’ rock wonders

For most US-visitors in this area Arches National Park is within the compulsory program. With good reason: The plateau contains the world’s highest density of natural arches. Water, ice, extreme temperatures, and a thick layer of salt in the subsoil are responsible for the nature’s sculptor’s accomplishment. Besides arches from red sandstone there are pillars, domes, faces, pinnacles, and sometimes lumps of rock that are balanced on a skinny tower beyond any law of gravitation.

Most of these rock wonders like The Windows, Balancing Rock, Park Avenue or Sand Dune Arch are situated directly beside the road or can be reached with short hikes. The climbing trip to Fiery Furnace can be booked with rangers’ guiding. Delicate Arch can be seen from the road, but it is worth any effort to climb up to the arch. From Wolfe Ranch it is a climb of 2.5 km with 150 m elevation gain, and back. It takes – depending on personal fitness – 30 to 60 minutes uphill. Getting around the corner a beautiful view to Delicate Arch opens, to a crater-shaped wash-out, and to the La Sal Mountains in the background. Starting two hours before sunset is best; don’t forget flashlights for the way back.

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