April 13,2011
Moab, Utah
Spring in Moab, Utah is a joy. We have enjoyed the weather and the gorgeous red rock country. Our annual visit to Arches National Park was as jaw dropping as always. The first image is of Turret Arch in the Windows section of the park. It is a wonderful hike to the base of the arch.
This is a capture of the North and South Window Arches. They are massive. The hike to the base allows one to stand under the arch and absorb how tall they really are. This pic does not do the size justice.
Some facts about Arches National Park:
Average annual precipitation
10 inches
Number of documented arches
2,000 and counting
Largest arch
Landscape Arch (over 300 feet)
Plants 483 species of plants
Rare species: Canyonlands Biscuitroot
Birds
186 species of birds
Threatened species: Bald Eagle, Mexican Spotted Owl
Endangered species: Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (De-listed in 2001)
Mammals
52 species of mammals
Fish
6 species of fish
Endangered species: Bonytail Chub, Colorado Pikeminnow, Humpback Chub, Razorback Sucker
Amphibians
6 species of amphibians
Reptiles
21 species of reptiles
Historic structure
Wolfe Cabin
This shot was taken on our ride over Hurrah Pass and towards Chicken Corners. We stopped here for a picnic lunch. This area is called Lockhart Basin. It is rare to find an open area along the Colorado River in this area. I must say that we thoroughly enjoyed the stop. We watched kayaks and floats go by towards Canyonlands National Park.