Moab/Arches NP - Best Sunset Spot?
Jun 10th, 2005, 08:59 AM
#7
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You will want to hike to Delicate Arch and stick around for the sun to set on the arch and watch up close as the red rock turns even redder. Then hike back before it gets dark.
I've never been to the Delicate Arch Viewpoint area at sunset, but I think you would be seeing the side of the arch that is in shadows because the sunsets on the other side. Besides, the viewpoint is ok, but you aren't that close to the arch. You really need binoculars to see details from the viewpoint. On the hike you can get up underneath the arch if you want.
Another good spot to be is the windows area and balanced rock.
I'm always talking my DH into driving into Arches just to watch the sunset.
Utahtea
I've never been to the Delicate Arch Viewpoint area at sunset, but I think you would be seeing the side of the arch that is in shadows because the sunsets on the other side. Besides, the viewpoint is ok, but you aren't that close to the arch. You really need binoculars to see details from the viewpoint. On the hike you can get up underneath the arch if you want.
Another good spot to be is the windows area and balanced rock.
I'm always talking my DH into driving into Arches just to watch the sunset.
Utahtea
Jun 11th, 2005, 04:05 AM
#8
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Thanks, Utahtea. We'll be there in mid-Sept, and driving from Denver, so I hope a) we get there early enough to make it to the site before the sun actually sets, and b) that there aren't a zillion people already there thinking the same thing! 
Jun 11th, 2005, 05:13 AM
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Unfortunately, you can count on lots of people being at Delicate Arch for sunset. Arches is so scenic that I'm sure there are plenty of great sunset spots that you won't have to share with lots of other people. There's a nice short easy trail around the back of Double arch. You'll pass Turret Arch. When we were there last year, there were loads of people at the pull off area. But we noticed a "primitive trail" sign and followed it and immediately got away from the crowds. Didn't see anyone on the trail. Just find a quiet spot and you'll enjoy an incredible sunset in Arches almost anywhere. If you're interested, you can check out pictures at www.pbase.com/peterb - just click on the utah04 gallery.
Jun 12th, 2005, 05:04 AM
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Yes, that's what we normally do too - just hike away from the easy stuff and within 100 yards, we're alone!
We'll see what our time (and fatigue) constraints are that day and play it accordingly. I agree that most of the area would be a good scenic choice.
We'll see what our time (and fatigue) constraints are that day and play it accordingly. I agree that most of the area would be a good scenic choice.
