"Marvelous rock formations" Arches National Park by stamporama

Mention the word 'desert' and one typically thinks of a vast, generally flat, hot and arid wasteland. Not exactly a place that attracts tourists, does it? But if one takes the time and effort to go the many national parks in Utah (the state with the most number) then you'd be surprised to find out that desert have their unique, inherent beauty.

Delicate Arch - looks like a wishbone to me!

At the Arches National Park, the most popular attraction is Delicate Arch. Its image can be seen on the license plates of many Utah-registered vehicles.

To see it upfront one would have to walk under the heat of the sun for about 30 mins., with a few inclines to climb. If you have a fear of heights like I do, then this is a good way to overcome it! But you also need a strong heart and pair of legs to get there. If not then there's a spot on the road where you could see from afar (in the comfort of your car) a speck of the arch...which can be greatly improved with binoculars.

At the park entrance

To get to the park, one has to drive about 4 hrs. from Salt Lake City towards Moab. The entrance fee is US$ 10 per vehicle which allows a week's passage. The road through the park passes through many interesting rock formations along the way and to see all those, a day may not be enough. But if you only have time to get there, tour then return to SLC by late afternoon (in short, about 2-3 hours) then go no farther than Delicate Arch.