Arches NP

Skyline Arch

Delicate Arch - symbol of Utah

We sat still Sunday and Monday because rain showers were predicted, and for once, happened.  The skies cleared enough for yesterday so we ventured into Arches National Park.  We can see Arches out of our bedroom windows - can see North Window and South Window Arches pretty clearly.  Our goal was to drive through the park, look at different areas we want to come back and hike, and then go get pizza in Moab.  However, the spur of the moment hit us and we hiked two different arches - Delicate Arch - this is the unofficial symbol on license plates you see, and also to Skyline Arch.

When we got to the Devils Garden area where there are about 20 arches, the parking lot was full.  We realized we would have to come to this area early in the day, hike where we want, have lunch, then move on to the other area we want to go to called The Windows Section, where North and South Window Arches are.  This is planned for tomorrow, if the weather permits.  Speaking of weather.  10% chance of thunderstorms means - 90% chance it will and 10% it won't.  This is what is going on today.  Reverse thinking.

Scenic Drive along Colorado River

Skyline Arch - pretty, big, and no one hiking there.  This was our first place we stopped and looked at.
From there we drove back to Delicate Arch, said that the hike to the base (stand under it) was 3 miles and was a steep climb over slickrock (flat rock and slippery when wet), so we opted to go to the observation area and hiked up to the upper viewing place.  Got a pretty neat view of it from there.  Got back to the car in just enough time - thunderstorm hit.  Poor people caught out on the slickrock!

Some ATV fun here

Drove into Moab for pizza, so-so in quality, then Dave wanted to take some pictures of all the ATVs here in town.  Amazing place if you are into ATVing - rent them, go on a tour, or bring your own.  This town is nicknamed, ATV center of the US.  No kidding.  On our way back to the campground I took us on a little side trip along the Colorado River.  This little gem of a road is amazing - hugs the canyons with Arches on our left and the Red Rock Canyon on our right.  BLM campgrounds along the river, bike trails, and of course, rafting.  Told Dave - just a few ore miles then I'll turn around.  Found a 5 star lodge nestled into the canyon right on the river, winery attached to it, called Red Rock Canyon Lodge.  Wow.  Got back to the campground about 5:30pm and sat and watched the fun of the ATVers coming back and all the RVs coming in for the night.