15 Things You Didn't Know About Utah's Delicate Arch - And Why You Need To See It In Person
Delicate Arch is an iconic Utah symbol – it’s even on our license plate. Every Utahn can identify it – but how many have actually visited in person? If you’ve never seen it in person, some of these things may surprise you.
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Far fewer see the arch up close - many just view it from one of the overlooks.
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It's hard to tell how large this arch is just from photos. Delicate Arch stands about 60 feet tall. The light opening inside the arch is 46 feet high.
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You'll usually find dozens of people sitting and enjoying the view. Sunset is a particularly popular time for photographers - sometimes hundreds of people wait for the right photo opportunity as dusk nears.
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You can see why people wait for this kind of photo opportunity!
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The hike will likely be chilly, but if you're looking for more solitude, sunrise is the time to be here.
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The park doesn't close at night - allowing you to see the stars.
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The arch was created by erosion.
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It takes as little as 1% of iron oxide to give the sandstone its color.
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Names for the icon include "Cowboy's Chaps," "Old Maid's Bloomers," and "Salt Wash Arch." The first time the arch was called "Delicate" was in a magazine article in 1934. The writer noted that the arch was "the most delicately chiseled arch in the entire area."
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In cold weather, the last 70 yards of the trail are often covered with ice. You'll want to wear extra traction, such as Yak-Traks over the soles of your hiking boots.
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If you're hiking Delicate Arch Trail, bring plenty of water.
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This crazy idea, hatched in the 1950s, was quickly abandoned.
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In fact, climbing any arch in the park (and there are an estimated 2,000) is not allowed.
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Delicate Arch Trail starts at the Wolf Ranch Cabin.
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Park rangers suggest that visitors consider weather conditions and their level of fitness before attempting this hike - every year, rescue operations are needed for unprepared hikers.
Is it worth the effort? Definitely.
Is it worth the effort? Definitely.
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Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint is reached with just a level, 100-yard stroll. Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint requires a half-mile hike with some stairs, but offers a better view.
Have you seen Delicate Arch in person? Tell us about your experience!
Check out another of Utah’s amazing places – Goblin Valley State Park.
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