“All my life through, the new
sights of nature made me rejoice like a child” – Marie Curie
Greetings from snowy Utah! I just
finished visiting the Beehive State for the first time in my life, and I loved
it!
Now when a lot of people think of
Utah, they think of a big salty lake. I have to admit that’s the thought that
popped into my head as well. After visiting my sister and brother-in-law, I
have discovered that there is so much more.
My first sight of the beauty of
Utah was out the airplane window. It was almost sunset, and the snow-covered
mountains were highlighted against a gloriously blue sky. Although the weather hovered
around a balmy 15 degree average, I still managed to explore a variety of the
outdoor offerings.
Most memorable was a trip to Moab
to see the famous rock formations of Arches National Park.
Upon arriving, we
paid our fee, and stopped at the visitor’s center to pick up a Junior Ranger
booklet. Although designed for kids, they often have activities that will help
deepen your experience of the park, and it’s a fun way to learn more about the
local animals and area (plus, I figure, until I can become a real NPS ranger,
I’ll at least be a junior ranger with a cool pin! :P).
We then drove up the road a bit,
saw the famous Balanced Rock, and stopped at the trail for North and South
Window. It was a very nice walk, about 1 mile around the formation. The ranger
later told us, that although arches and windows were labeled differently, they
are formed the same way, and only contrast in name.
A little further down the road was
the trailhead for Delicate Arch- symbol of Utah and a gorgeous hike. After
strapping on our yak-traks and micro-spikes to deal with the 8” of partially
frozen snow, we began our approach. The trail is one of the longer hikes in the
park, and involves some uphill climbing, but is well worth the effort. It is
about 1.5 miles to the arch (making for a 3 mi. round trip), passing
petroglyphs and the cabin of the first pioneers to the area.
It is almost impossible to describe
the beautiful sight of the arch with its red rock highlighted by the cloudless
blue sky and white snow. The contrast of colors made for some beautiful
pictures, even with just an IPhone handy. If you want a closer look at the
arch, it is possible to follow the edge of the slope and stand beneath the
formation- just watch your step!
It was an awesome experience to
have, and the interpretive displays at the visitor’s center were helpful in
understanding more about the pioneers to Utah and the Moab area. If you are looking
for a bite to eat after a peaceful hike through the park, I highly recommend
the Moab Diner! I hope you all get the chance to see the sights of Arches
National Park!
