Arches National Park, Moab, Utah

Arches National Park just outside of Moab, Utah is an unbelievable feat of nature. The park contains the largest concentration of natural stone arches in the world--more than 2000 arches! On our trip, we started by visiting the nature center where we were able to learn how the arches were developed. Jay also told us what he has learned over the years about the arches. 

The park lies on a salt bed which is the cause of the formations and arches. The salt was deposited 300 million years ago when a sea flowed through the area. The salt and water caused the formations to erupt, creating the arches, spires and other geological phenomenons.

We were able to hike throughout the formations and spent most of our time at the Windows Section. It was amazing checking out the Turret Arch and the North and South Window Arches. We had a picnic lunch overlooking the Pivot Rock.

On our drive up to our hike, we saw the Three Sisters formation. Each formation seemed more unreal than the one that came before. This formation truly looked like three women standing regally together. Jay explained to us that the whole area previously extended another mile higher but over thousands of years has eroded to what it is today.

 

These kids had an amazing time exploring, hiking, and rock climbing.

To learn more about the park, check out their website.  When you visit, make sure to take plenty of water, sunscreen and a camera!!! There are camp sites, hiking trails, horseback trails and much more. I strongly recommend families check this out!