Hey there, fellow adventurers! So, I recently had one of those experiences that make you realize just how spectacular our world can be. I finally checked off a bucket list item that had been on my mind for a while: canyoneering in Moab, Utah.
Now, if you’ve never heard of Morning Glory Arch, it’s time for a little introduction. This natural wonder is nestled in the heart of Utah’s red rock country, near the town of Moab. It’s a sight to behold – a majestic sandstone arch soaring high above the ground, with a name that’s as poetic as the arch itself. The adventure promised to be nothing short of epic.
Preparation is Key:
First things first, you’ve got to be prepared for this kind of adventure. Moab’s desert landscape can be unforgiving, so plenty of water and the right gear is essential.
The Journey Begins:
The trail for Morning Glory Arch is pretty easy as long as you follow the green paint marks. The journey began with a hike through a sandstone canyon. The beauty of this place lies in its seclusion – you really feel like you’re stepping into a secret world.
As we hiked deeper into the canyon, the walls of red rock grew taller, casting mesmerizing shadows as the sun started its ascent in the clear desert sky. It was like wandering through a natural art gallery, and I couldn’t help but be in awe of the stunning scenery.
The Canyoneering Thrills:
When we saw the bolted chains we knew we were at the first repell into an open slot canyon. Be careful our rope splashed into a puddle as soon as we tossed it over the canyon’s edge. If you’re not too familiar with canyoneering, just picture yourself Spider-Man on a sandy, red rock stage. It’s thrilling and a tad bit nerve-wracking, but oh-so-rewarding.
The highlight was rappelling down into a hidden alcove within the high canyon walls. As I descended, I couldn’t believe my eyes.
Once we got to the bottom and packed up our rope we stepped out to an open clearing. Only a few steps later we were ontop of the arch.
We set up the rope and slowly lowered, careful not to hit anyone below. Morning Glory Arch stretched above me like an enormous, natural rainbow. The colors in the rock were mesmerizing, and the cool shade underneath was a welcome respite from the desert heat.
The Arch’s Magic:
We spent some time marveling at Morning Glory Arch – taking photos, and simply soaking in the magic of the moment. It’s hard to describe the feeling of being in the presence of something so ancient and awe-inspiring.
The sunlight filtering through the arch created a natural light show that danced across the sandstone. It was almost as if Morning Glory Arch itself was giving us a spectacular welcome, putting on a show just for our little group.
Heading Back:
After our time under the arch, it was time to make our way back through the canyons. The return journey had its own set of challenges and thrills, exploring caves and getting a little turned around. But the memories we made and our newfound friends made it all worth it.
The Takeaway:
Exploring Morning Glory Arch was a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a reminder that the world is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered, and sometimes, a little adventure is all it takes to find them. So, if you ever find yourself in Moab, Utah, don’t miss out on the chance to canyoneer your way to Morning Glory Arch. It’s an adventure you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
