Arches National Park in Utah is proof that nature doesn’t settle for boring landscapes. Instead, it sculpted thousands of arches, towers, and rock formations that look like portals to another world. Three years have passed since my trip across the American Southwest, exploring its national parks and breathtaking landscapes. And among them, Arches undoubtedly belongs to the top tier.
The Journey to an Icon: Delicate Arch
If there’s one thing you absolutely must see in Arches, it’s Delicate Arch – the park’s most photographed landmark and one of the most famous natural arches in the USA. Since my hiking buddy wasn’t feeling up for the challenge (apparently, his legs had other plans), I set out alone. It was January—snow-covered trails, bright sunshine, and not a breath of wind. Perfect conditions to freeze my lungs while climbing uphill.
As I hiked, I took photos, admired the Martian-like landscape, and fully soaked in the surroundings. But just before reaching the top, I managed to do something every experienced hiker has done at least once—I lost the trail markings.
Unexpected Guide
For a moment, I felt like Indiana Jones without a map. And just then, as if straight out of a movie, Jennifer appeared. A confident, beautiful hiker moving with ease across the rocky terrain. My new GPS signal had long hair and a Canadian accent.
I decided to follow her—she clearly knew where she was going. Soon, we reached a narrow rock gap that we had to cross, and on the other side, I finally saw what I had come for.
Delicate Arch: Breathtaking Views
And Maybe Also the Hike Up. There it stood—Delicate Arch. Not a triumphal arch, but certainly an iconic one. Massive, majestic, shaped by wind and time. In that moment, I knew all the effort—hiking through the snow, occasional slipping, and catching my breath—had been worth it.
Jennifer kindly took a few photos of me, since my selfies were… well, tragic. (Trying to fit the arch into the frame while looking remotely athletic is harder than it seems.) I returned the favor, snapping some shots for her and a few other excited hikers who were eager to capture the moment.
After about an hour of admiring the view, I suggested to Jennifer that we hike back together—after all, a three-kilometer walk is always better with good company. During our descent, we covered an impressive range of topics, from the mountains of British Columbia to her passion for sewing, to whether one can survive a month on just trail mix and energy bars.
At the parking lot, my friend Zdeněk greeted us and kindly took a photo of us together. And so, my journey to Delicate Arch ended not just with incredible views but also with an unexpected but pleasant encounter.
Geological Magic
How These Rock Wonders came to be? Today, Arches National Park boasts over 2,000 natural stone arches, but 65 million years ago, this place looked entirely different—it was a seabed. As the sea retreated, it left behind layers of sandstone that would later become the foundation for the breathtaking formations we see today.
Over millions of years, wind, water, and erosion worked their magic, shaping the arches, towers, and delicate rock structures. Standing in the park, you realize that nature is the ultimate sculptor—and if you want results this spectacular, you just have to be patient for a few million years.
Tips for Visitors
How to Make the Most of Arches?
Best Time to Visit?
- Evening at sunset. The red rock formations glow in warm orange and pink hues, creating a surreal landscape.
Best Hiking Trails?
- Delicate Arch Trail – The most famous hike (4.8 km round trip) and an absolute must-do.
- Devils Garden Trail – A longer, more challenging trail showcasing multiple stunning arches.
- Windows Section – A short and easy hike leading to several impressive arches.
Other Must-See Spots?
- Balanced Rock – A massive boulder precariously balanced on a thin pedestal (it looks like it could fall at any moment, but don’t worry—it’s been standing for thousands of years).
- Landscape Arch – One of the longest and thinnest arches in the world, so delicate it seems like it’s held together by sheer willpower.
Be Prepared!
- Bring plenty of water – Utah heat can be brutal, even in winter.
- Wear good hiking shoes – Sandstone trails can be slippery.
- Check the weather forecast – Snow and rain can make some sections dangerous.
Arches: A Red Rock Wonderland
Arches National Park is one of those places that will leave you speechless—and not just because of the hike up to Delicate Arch. It’s a land where geological magic meets hiking challenges and unexpected encounters.
Whether you come for the iconic rock formations, breathtaking sunsets, or the surreal desert landscape, Arches will amaze you. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even meet your own Jennifer.
