After visiting Lily Lake at RMNP, we started our journey to Arches NP at around noon. We went a little off route as our GPS ran out of battery and failed to charge for some reason, coupled with my poor navigation skills :). The plan was to reach Arches by 6PM, hike the Delicate Arch trail and watch the sunset from there. Despite our off route adventure, heavy rain on our way (It felt like rain was following us wherever we went) and a quick lunch stop, we made it to the park by 6:15PM. The parking lot to the trail is 12 miles from the park entrance and by the time we parked our car it was 6:45PM. K wasn’t too keen on watching the sunset, but I was determined. I didn’t pay much attention to the map at the beginning of Delicate Arch trail, otherwise I would’ve changed my mind :). The trail is 1.6 miles (one way) and moderately strenuous. It wasn’t difficult, but it felt very very long and was steep in some places. We (I) huffed and puffed my way up and the sun just started to set by the time we reached the arch. The orange glow of the sun against a blue sky with pink and purple hues was a beautiful sight indeed. The Arch itself was very impressive. It didn’t look as big from afar, but when you stand right underneath it, you understand its magnificence. We sat there for a long time, and thought if we stay a little longer, we could see the moon as well. If you decide to do that, one piece of advise – PLAN AHEAD AND CARRY A TORCH :). We didn’t have anything except a water bottle and our camera. It got really dark and was hard to see.
We stayed at the Days Inn in Moab, 4 miles from the park. The rooms were newly renovated and really clean. It was my first time seeing wood floors in a hotel room. A good affordable place to stay if you are in the area.
View of sunset on our way to the Arch.
Delicate Arch
The Moon making its way out of the clouds
Verdict: A must see. Our long drive and walk were worth it.
Through My Window 