The Arches National Park was my stop at the American Southwest’s Canyon Country trip. Due to the short visit, there was little time getting around and scouting prime locations for photography. We got there early afternoon, stayed at Moab, Utah for a night — so essential we had an evening and next morning sunrise prime time shootings at the Arches NP. Since the Delicate Arch is the signature landmark of Arches National Park, we decided to spend our first prime time shooting there, and we weren’t disappointed. The sky was cleared but series of thin clouds slowly appeared on the horizon when the Sun started to set. It wasn’t a dramatic dream sunset but i wouldn’t complain.
The Delicate Arch trail begins at the Wolfe Ranch parking area, about 1.5 miles to the trail head, elevates roughly 500 feet and takes about 1.5 hours hike round trip. The journey is rather bored in the beginning till you hit the slickrock and it begins to climb steadily. The trail eventually ends after a short distance on rock ledge leading to the arch. There, you will find yourself surround with red rocks views, together with many spectators and photographers waiting for the classic sunset and tourists taking turn for a stand on the Arch cliché.
To my surprise, there was a wedding photo shoot took place when we got there, definitely not something i would imagine happen on the Arch. We waited till dawn, snapped a few shots then began to head back after dark. Part of the journey is on the slickrock, so there’s no visible trail but walks on open area marks briefly with series of rock claims. I suggest you wear a head light or carry a light hand torch with you if you are unfamiliar with the trail and plan to stay late.
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