15 Things You Didn't Know About Utah's Delicate Arch - And Why You Need To See It In Person
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
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.
Far fewer see the arch up close - many just view it from one of the overlooks.
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!
The hike will likely be chilly, but if you're looking for more solitude, sunrise is the time to be here.
The park doesn't close at night - allowing you to see the stars.
The arch was created by erosion.
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.
If you're hiking Delicate Arch Trail, bring plenty of water.
This crazy idea, hatched in the 1950s, was quickly abandoned.
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.
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.
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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