The Fiery Furnace in Arches National Park is a small but concentrated maze of colorful sandstone fins and narrow slot canyons between towering sandstone walls.
The surreal geologic labyrinth earns its name from the deep red and orange glow of the sandstone fins that, when lit by the setting sun, resemble a ‘fiery furnace’.
To enter the Fiery Furnace, you must accompany a ranger-guided tour or obtain a hiking permit at the visitor center. The NPS cautions that there are no trails, signs, or cairns in the Fiery Furnace. GPS units do not work well due to the towering sandstone walls.
Navigating its complex passages requires physical agility, careful observation and a good guide.
Fortunately one of the great people I have met here in Moab volunteers in the Arches Visitor Center and has been trained as a guide through the Fiery Furnace.
Kris was able to get
us passes to hike the Furnace this week and it was an amazing experience.
My swimmer frend Cindy, her husband Don and Don’s brother and wife joined us on the hike. I highly recommend this hike for anyone visiting Arches, just be sure to get your permit of reservation for the Ranger led hike early as they sell out fast!
“I stand for what I stand on.” – Edward Abbey
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