Date of Trip: March 30 – April 2, 2006
Moab, Utah Elevation: 4185 ft.
Van Camping: Arches National Park
We slept overnight at Devil’s Garden Campground at site 39. The rock formations, picnic table, and extra cement table made this camping site extra nice. The sandy terrain is so different than camping in Colorado. We slept in the van and it was cold!
Family Hikes in Arches National Park
The next morning, we walked across the road and hiked the easy Broken Arch hike. We definitely would have been lost without the cairns along the way. This just added to the adventure. The hike was really unforgettable and perfect for young families. Another perfect hike for a young family is the Sand Dune Arch. The Delicate Arch, being one of Utah’s most famous icons, is a must see. Since the Delicate Arch hike is rated as strenuous, we chose the Delicate Arch Viewpoint hike instead.
Moab Hotel: The original plan
We planned for one camping night and two hotel nights from the beginning. This was a good plan since the camping night was a little harsh temperature wise. After all, we can survive just about anything for one night.
We spent the following two nights at the Best Western Canyonlands Inn. This hotel was nice, comfortable, and the continental breakfast was a hit with the kids.
A Morning View of Landscape Arch
We started the day with a hike to Landscape Arch. Landscape Arch is one of the most unstable arches and may be gone tomorrow. So, it seemed urgent to view Landscape Arch on this day.
Arches and Canyonlands: Two National Parks in One Day
Our goal was to see a little of both parks. After a quick stop to pick up a pair of Junior Ranger Badges at the Arches Visitor Center, we drove to Canyonlands National Park. First thing after arriving we stopped at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center and watched the introduction movie.
Our Canyonlands Tour Guide: a CD
We rented a CD at the visitor center which described the highlights as we drove through the park. The CD was a huge help for our quick tour. We found Upheaval Crater to be the most fascinating view. The mystery of its history was a draw. I know this National Park has some great adventures for the more rugged. But, for our young family, the car tour was scenic and educational.