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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.

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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

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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.