Day Five: Arches
We were in Arches NP by 6AM and made our way to Delicate Arch, the one that can be seen on the Utah license plate. It was a three mile hike round trip but with exposure to heights and the sun and a steep uphill climb up rocky surfaces, it was challenging. Once at the top we enjoyed jam and croissants we had gotten from a local grocery story the night before. I was amazed that you could walk right up to the arch, I wasn't expecting to get that close. Obviously people wanted to take pictures under it so an orderly line was formed. I joined the line and did the following pose much to the crowds delight when they realized what I was doing.
Back down we went with a plan of going to the farthest point in the park and then making stops along the way out. We got to Devil's Garden and walked about a mile to the Landscape Arch. This one actually had a huge chunk break off, while people were hanging out underneath it, in 1991 so we only got to enjoy it from a distance since they're not sure it's safe any more. Then we set out for Double O Arch based on a stranger's recommendation, which was 1.2 miles away. May not sound like a lot but it was midday at this point, so freaking hot, and it involved scrambling up rocks, so slow going. Needless to say, it took a while to get there and back so by the time we got to the car, it was time to head out. The folks at the campground said we could come back to shower so we took advantage of that.
On the road again! Headed towards Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park being our next and last NP on the agenda. Four hours of driving later we got a campsite a little off the freeway and had a very chilly night in the tent.
Back down we went with a plan of going to the farthest point in the park and then making stops along the way out. We got to Devil's Garden and walked about a mile to the Landscape Arch. This one actually had a huge chunk break off, while people were hanging out underneath it, in 1991 so we only got to enjoy it from a distance since they're not sure it's safe any more. Then we set out for Double O Arch based on a stranger's recommendation, which was 1.2 miles away. May not sound like a lot but it was midday at this point, so freaking hot, and it involved scrambling up rocks, so slow going. Needless to say, it took a while to get there and back so by the time we got to the car, it was time to head out. The folks at the campground said we could come back to shower so we took advantage of that.
On the road again! Headed towards Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park being our next and last NP on the agenda. Four hours of driving later we got a campsite a little off the freeway and had a very chilly night in the tent.
Chelsey this is the first time I've ever been on a blog and I must say it is really neat. It's the next best thing to being there with you. What an adventure, a girl after my own heart! I loved all the pictures and summary of your experiences. Take care in Chicago. I'll call you soon. So proud of you!
ReplyDeleteThanks Aunty Kim :) So glad you are enjoying it! Talk soon xo
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