Delicate Arch.

This morning Paul, Mary, Sandy and John drove back to Arches National Park for a 3 mile hike to see Delicate Arch. There was an advertised 480 foot gain in elevation up to the arch and the trail was rated as strenuous but we all made it there without any major issues. We were expecting some rain showers this afternoon and luckily it held off until we were back home.

The parking lot for the trailhead is off the main road and is fairly large so there were several open spots when we arrived. We set off up the trail, the weather was great and although there were people on the trail it did not seem crowded. Some of us were puffing during the walk up to the arch so it was strenuous but vey doable if you take your time and stop for a break or two.

 

Sandy and Mary set the early pace.

 

The view improved as we gained elevation.

 

 

Are we there yet? No John, that’s not it.

 

Are we there yet? No John, that’s to far away.

 

Are we there yet? No John, that’s not it.

 

Come on John, it’s not much farther.

 

Delicate Arch.

 

Sandy and Delicate Arch.

 

There is an Arch within the Arch (in the distant background).

 

There were plenty of interesting rock formations up there.

 

We had a nice hike this morning and made it back to Portal RV for lunch, the rain held off until we were back at the mothership.