Mountains Climbing

Thursday, November 29, 2007

National Park Arches

At 73,379 acres, Arches is relatively small for a National Park, with very few areas far enough from roads to qualify as backcountry. Still, it's not hard to get away from crowds even at this very popular destination, since the major attractions here are viewable by car and many visitors don't bother to stray further afield than the park's major road.
Arches is a great place to explore, but the climate and landscape can cause major problems for the unprepared. Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius). Carry water (one gallon or four liters per person each day is recommended), and wear protective clothing.
Winter daytime temperatures are generally comfortable, but at night, it often drops below freezing. Plan ahead.
Trails are marked with cairns (piles of rocks). Follow these carefully and stay on the trails. Sandstone"slickrock" is fun to climb on, but can crumble and break easily and can be very slippery. It is much easier to climb up some areas than to get back down. Listen to your common sense and turn back before you reach your skill limits.

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