Day 14: Arches National Park

I didn’t have to go very far to see the sunrise this morning. Behind the campground are several rows of sandstone buttes.

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After two weeks on the road, I still stop and find the colors of these formations fascinating.

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Bye bye full moon.

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At 8am, it was already 84. It’s gonna be another hot day. I started hiking the Delicate Arch trail early to beat the sun.

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I now remember why I didn’t hike this trail two years ago. With very little shade, you learn quickly to take breaks when you do find shade.

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Or you bring your own shade.

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But the hike is definitely worth it when you turn the corner and see this.

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I spent a good hour people watching and enjoying the view. Everyone has to get their picture under the arch. Kind of like showing proof of your achievement.

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Not all arches are uniform. But they all are beautiful in the way they are.

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Another ranger program this afternoon talked about the plants and rocks at the Windows.

Afterwards, I met a gentlemen from Washington who travels around the National Parks. He carries an old camcorder and is a truly fascinating human being. Inspirational in how simple life can be when you’re happy and traveling wherever life takes you.

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Nearby, the Double Arch is a fascinating piece of work. Starting with one pothole arch, three major openings have enlarged side by side to create this double arch.

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Double Arch’s larger span is 144 feet wide by 112 feet high. The smaller opening is 67 feet wide by 86 feet high.

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A helicopter was called in for a search and rescue this evening at Fiery Furnance. This heat and dehydration is no joke. Keep hydrated!

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