Day 14 - Moab, UT - Arches and Canyonlands

We are officially in National Park territory and it’s clear that others have figured it out.  The campground was full of people ready to enjoy the outdoors - an interesting mix of “Grey Nomads”, mountain bikers, hippies, and general outdoor types.  It was fun to see all these folks mixing in the campground.

The weather overnight was ideal for sleep and we all had a great night of dreams.  I woke up feeling a bit under the weather, but thought it was just dealing with the altitude/dry air.  Robinson had reminded us of the dry air with a few nose bleeds as we went into altitude.  Fortunately nothing serious, but a reminder that we are surrounded by high altitude, dry air (it really is a desert!).  Robinson checked out the local dogs and the playground in camp while breakfast we prepared.


After breakfast, it was off to Arches.  Amy, in passing mentioned the quote “Too Orange, zero stars” when describing Arches and so the boys were introduced to the concept that the terrific book Sub-Par parks which is a compilation of all the worst ratings of parks.  It’s terrific if you enjoy sarcasm.    


Since we were up early enough and the weather was cooperating, we embarked on the long hike up to Delicate Arch.  When we got there, even Sebastian was impressed as an “Awesome” slipped past his lips.  It really is a big arch, but Sebastian seemed hooked.  







Before leaving the park, we drove up to the Devils Garden area and hiked over to both Pine Tree Arch and Tunnel Arch.  Tunnel Arch was nice, but Pine Tree Arch really took the cake.  If not for the morning at Delicate Arch, this would absolutely have been the winner.





At this point, the crowds had arrived and so we decided to head back to camp.  We relaxed for a bit before heading over to Canyonlands.  While heading that way, we got our second recommendation to see sunset from Dead Horse Point State Park.  So, we planned to have a picnic style dinner in Canyonlands before finishing the day at Dead Horse Point.  


Canyonlands proved to have some amazing views.  It was hard to believe how quickly the scenery changed from when we left to what it looked like from the “Island in the Sky”.  Quite a view from what felt like the top of the world.  






After a bit though, it was clear that i was sick and everybody else was tired.  So, while it would have been an amazing sunset, we will have to return for it. The one we had from camp wasn't so bad.





We put the solar generator to work for dinner and put a lot of chicken patties (and fake chicken patties) on the electric griddle.  It was a pretty nice dinner - especially given that we are on the road and camping!.


After dinner, the sickness hit in and I was exhausted and fell asleep quickly.  The rest of the family joined me later to finish another great tourism day!

Total miles travelled - 3,373 miles (47,222) 

# States (Provinces) - 10

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