Arches National Park, a landscape of contrasting colors, landforms and textures unlike any other in the world. This red rock paradise has over 2,000 natural stone arches, in addition to hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive fins and giant balanced rocks. The power of rain and wind shape this landscape and create this unique environment enjoyed by millions of park visitors every year. Some of the most famous and most photographed arches in the world live here in this park.
“Standing there, gaping at this monstrous and inhumane spectacle of rock and cloud and sky and space, I feel a ridiculous greed and possessiveness come over me. I want to know it all, possess it all, embrace the entire scene intimately, deeply, totally…”
― Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire
So with that many visitors enjoying these unique formations it can be quite a challenge to have the Edward Abbey experience. That is unless you have that special contact that knows the best “off the beaten path” parts of the park!
Pete was not only a great off-roading guide, but also an exceptional hiking and canyoneering partner (yes, he carries his own ropes and gps!). Avoiding the crowds we entered the park through the back roads and started hiking toward Herdina Park – listed on the park map with no roads or trails leading into it.
“Not all those who wander are lost.” – J.R.R. Tolkien
Consulting the gps we reached a number of awe inspiring vistas and formations.
The hike included arches rarely seen by the average park visitors including “Leaping Arch” and “Eye of the Whale Arch”.
There was also the opportunity to tackle my heights issues with some ledges, slick rock and a little rope work!
Just another day of incredible hiking in Moab.
“Afoot and lighthearted I take to the open road, healthy, free, the world before me.” –Walt Whitman
Herdina Park – Arches National Park
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