The first 2 photos are of "Delicate Arch" located in the northeastern most part of the park. The hike to the arch is approximately 3 miles. It's worth the trip for a photograph, or if you want to see this arch especially just before sunset. You can also approach by driving on a near by road. This will give you a view of the arch from a short distance away.







This photo was actually taken before the top photo. The sun broke through the clouds about 10 minutes after this shot, and gave us the beautiful photograph above with the snow capped mountains within the arch itself.







We are just inside the main entrance to Arches National Park. This magnificent stone mountains rise hundreds of feet from the plateau floor. The stone is deep redish brown. Quite breathtaking to look up at these monuments of stone.










We went to this National Park in March, when rains showers, and weather are not the best. The advantage to going during this time of the year are the clouds in the sky, and snow capped mountains in the background.







The town of Moab is about 30 minutes from the park entrance. This little town is friendly, and has a many shops, usually owned by people who have grown up around here. Don't forget to get yourselves a "Red Dirt Shirt", you'll find them in most of the shops. And yes the dirt around here is deep redish brown.









There are many hiking trails throughout the park. I first brought my son to this park in 1991 when he was 10. He enjoy the hikes, and climbing on the rock formations. You do have to be careful though, it is easier to climb up a rock formation, than down. People get what is called "Rimrock", they are paralyzed once atop a formation,and then they have to be rescued. Can be embarrassing.







Once inside the park you will come upon the "Windows" section of the park. Most of the larger arches are located here. "Double Arch" which is one of the largest in the park is 300 feet in height, and 300 feet across. It's hard to believe that something this big can be freestanding .









One of the best hikes in the park is when you reach the furthest most point. The "Devils Garden" area. This hike is 4.2 miles to "Double O Arch", with side trails leading to the other arches along the way. This is not an easy hike, take plenty of water, and pack a lunch, or snack. There 7 different arches along this trail. There are many photo opportunities along this route, so bring a camera.







Also in the "Devils Garden" area is a shorter hike. You can go to "Broken Arch", and "Sand Dune Arch" on this trail. This hike will not take too long, it's less than 0.5 miles. Not too long if you have kids, and not to strenuous.









As with most of Utah you will see wildlife within all the parks. The deer will let you get very close, camera opportunities abound. Just remember the chances that they are willing to let you pet them are very remote. So be careful, and enjoy them in their natural enviorment.







We went climbing around the larger arches, if you look closely at some of the photos you see little specs, they're not ants but people. You can really get an idea of how gigantic these formations are.










If you're taking pictures, try to use the mountains in the distance within the arch itself for a better composition. Many of the arches on the "Devil's Garden Trail" will offer you this kind of photo opportunity.










It's been years since I took photos of the majority of this park. I plan on another trip with my current camera equipment to rendar better compositions for my own gallery. Hopefully you will take the time to visit this beautiful park.














Oh by the way, if you look close you see a small figure standing with his arms stretched wide wearing a red shirt. Now you can really get an idea of the immenseness of the stone walls that will surround you.