On our way to Mexico from Salt Lake City, we decided to stop at Arches National Park. It was conveniently on our route and the break allowed us to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the National Park system, move our legs, and take in the winter landscape of Arches.

The snowy winter scenery is much different than the scorching summer view. This time, in January, many of the pull-offs were empty; a crowded pull-off meant 4 other cars. The solitude helped to magnify the significance of the arches. We’d often stare in silence. On the longer hikes, the only movements we saw were those of Cottontail rabbits.

Below are some of the magnificent views and arches we saw. Note: Each photo is clickable to a larger image.

 

Balancing Rock
Balancing Rock

 

Turret Arch
Turret Arch

 

South Window Arch
South Window Arch

 

North Arch
North Window Arch

 

North Window Arch
Andreas under the North Window Arch

 

Horizon from Devils Garden
Horizon from Devils Garden

 

Fiery Furnace
Fiery Furnace & our home on wheels

 

Fiery Furnace and Lasal Mountains
Fiery Furnace and Lasal Mountains

 

Sand Dune Arch Reflection
Sand Dune Arch Reflection

 

Landscape Arch
Landscape Arch, spanning 290 feet, making it the second longest natural arch in the world. Since 1991, three slabs of sandstone (30, 47, and 70 feet) have fallen from it, so tourists are no longer allowed closer to the arch than this view.

 

Double Arch
Double Arch

 

Double Arch Landscape
Double Arch Landscape and Andreas

Within the first few minutes of driving it will be obvious why the Arches area is a National Park. Overall, it is possible to see many of the “main” arches in a day. But, a day of touring can feel short; we’d love to come back in the Spring or Fall and bike to some of the more remote areas and to add in some and canyoneering explorations.