Moab, UT
May 27, 2014
Joe and I have made the hike to Delicate Arch 4 times and each time we have the same reaction..."WOW!". It is breath taking to turn the final corner on the last leg of the hike and see this natural wonder. Delicate Arch, towering 80 feet over hikers, is the most widely recognized landmark in Arches NP.
Delicate Arch was not always Delicate Arch. Because of its distinctive shape it was known as "The Chaps" by local cowboys back in the day. Also, this arch was not even part of the original designated area known as a National Monument established in 1929. It was not added until 1938 when the boundaries were enlarged. Pictures don't capture the "WOW!". It needs to be experienced in person to be really appreciated.
Our recent hike to Delicate Arch was even more special because Pam and Vic ( Travelin' in the Big EZ) and Catherine and Guy (friends from Belgium) were experiencing this awesome wonder for the first time.
When you pass the Homestead, a footbridge crosses over the Salt Wash.
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| Guy, Catherine and Joe |
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| Pam leads the way! |
Then its a steep climb up a mountain of slickrock...the most difficult section of the trail for me. Lots of stops for pictures ( ummm to catch my breath!). The views from here are stunning!
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| From the slickrock, you can see the parking lot down below... |
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| and a stop was necessary to photograph the Windows Section on the distant skyline. Do you see the arch? |
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| Vic is pausing to take it all in! |
It is like being on the moon or another planet when you reach the top...
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| Pam... |
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| Yep, we are patiently waiting our turn... |
Its a lot to take in...the arch and miles and miles of beautiful scenery.
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| Pam and Vic |
Pam and Vic were the first to venture out to the arch...these pictures show how huge this arch is.
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| Joe stayed behind to take pictures so I ventured out with Guy and Catherine. |
It was an absolutely beautiful day...well, maybe alittle warm. We were all smiles though as we drove home. Sure makes one feel fully alive to spend days like this with friends and nature!
Our week ended much too soon.
Wednesday, Guy and Catherine headed south to Flagstaff. No "goodbyes" said, but rather "until next time". The rest of our morning was full of conversation and laughter with Pam and Vic...
Once again...there were no "goodbyes" on Thursday morning as Pam and Vic had to leave early for a long travel day to Vegas. Hugs, smiles...
until next time, take care and
enjoy the journey!
P.S. Pam left a jar of almond butter with us. We had ourselves a "day-aaang" good AB&J sandwich for lunch!
You are so right....it is wonderful each and every visit, but you know, the first is the best, and taking someone up there for the "first time" is also so very special. --Dave (GoingRvWay.com)
ReplyDeleteRight on Dave!
DeleteSuch wonderful scenery we enjoyed tagging along.
ReplyDeleteGlad you did George and Susie...
DeleteSome attractions just never get old. Sounds like you've made some great friends along the way. I'm curious, how long is the hike to Delicate Arch? Is early morning the best time of day to visit?
ReplyDeleteGood morning Gayle. The hike is a 3 mile round trip hike...in and out the same way! It really depends on the time of year you are here and how hot the day will be. Joe and I are early risers so we always prefer to go early.
DeleteI know Pam and Vic's time was short in Moab. I was hoping they would get to the Delicate Arch. So glad that you and Joe took them to this beautiful place. I was also hoping they would get to the Corona Arch, my favorite. Glad you a great time together. I am sure there will be more down the road. Enjoy your remaining few weeks. Can't wait to see what's next:)
ReplyDeleteYou are so right Pam...it's hard for me to pick which would be my favorite. Our first hike when we returned a few weeks ago was Corona Arch! You won't believe what we found there...charred wood! Someone had built a fire at the base of the arch and then used the charred wood to write all over the arch! Some people......
DeleteI second your WOW! Since we have not been there I can be a little girl giddy and in awe of my surroundings.
ReplyDeleteIt is always fun to bring friends or family to a place and show them a spectacular place. Its a special treat to share with friends and Vic and Pam got them from you, Gay.
Thanks again for the tip on the tire covers we love it.
Delicate Arch is definitely a jaw dropper.....as well as many others! I hope when you and Steve do visit here, Joe and I will be here too!
DeleteI was happy to read on your blog that you liked the tire covers.
I love being the photographer so I can stop and catch my breath! :-)
ReplyDeleteI know Lisa...if there is nothing to photograph, we have to stop to listen for the birds! That works too......
DeleteThere are many sights in Utah that I've felt like WOW. Pictures don't seem to capture the beauty of the area but they sure are nice to look at later and remember.
ReplyDeleteI know what you are saying Jeri.....Utah has become one of my favorite states! But we haven't traveled in your neck of the woods yet. Hope to get to Oregon and Washington next year.....
DeleteThanks again for taking us on this hike to see the stunning Delicate Arch. We left Moab knowing we have many more places to explore there. A week is certainly not enough time!
ReplyDeleteYou are so welcome Pam...I do hope we meet again and perhaps Moab might just be the spot if and when you return. Enjoy the grand kids.....and family time!
DeleteWe love Moab. We have yet to make the hike to Delicate Arch. It's either the weather or other plans. Nice post on one of my favorite places.
ReplyDeleteThank you Ingrid! We love Moab too...
DeleteDelicate Arch, Corona Arch and Fisher Towers are my 3 favorite hikes here...
Wow, is right! What a wonderful adventure you guys have had. Your photos are gorgeous! Extra special to share the good times with friends!!
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