After this morning's hike of Corona Arch and our rock art adventure, we relaxed at the hotel and swam in the pool. This evening we grabbed dinner at Wendy's and then made our way into Arches National Park for a sunset hike of Delicate Arch. It was a bit early to be at the arch for sunset, and so we stopped at Balanced Rock for a short walk around.
Then, we made the short drive over to the Delicate Arch Trailhead. It was a pretty busy place. Lot of cars with license plates from all over and people speaking many different languages. We hit the trail after preparing our packs. Our first stop was the Wolfe Ranch historic site where there is an old cabin
and some rock art.
Then, we continued on the way up to the famous arch. I've read many times that the Delicate Arch Trail is rated as the best hike in the park. While the destination of Delicate Arch itself is very impressive, I think the hike to it is a bit on the boring side.
There's a long, steep slickrock section, and eventually, the trail follows a narrow ledge
up to a natural amphitheater. Once you turn the corner at the amphitheater, bam! There's Delicate Arch.
We found a place to sit and share the view with hundreds of other people.
As time for sunset approached, it was obvious that there would be no sunset on this evening. Clouds covered much of the sky and lightning could be seen far off on the distance. Sierra decided that she wanted a picture right at the arch and so we waited in line for a bit and then Noelle took our photo in the waning light.
As the light started to fade, we began to make the return hike back to the trailhead.
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