The next day's plan was to get to Arches National Park. To enter this park you have to make a reservation. Some spots are filled months out and then there are opportunities the night before - at 6pm they open the link to apply for a spot.
I was a bit worried we would drive all the way to Moab and not get in.
But, we got our spot. I was so excited.
We had the perfect day - bright and clear!
The landscape started to change.
And we started spotting jeeps. Big groups of jeeps. They were on trails on the sides of these hills or formations.
And the landscape just kept getting better.
While we were waiting for our reservation time of entering Arches, we drove into the town of Moab. And the Jeeps were everywhere - all sizes, colors and some were outfitted to the limit. I wish I would have taken pictures, but we were so enthralled by the volume of Jeeps. A sign then clued us in "Moab Jeep Fest 2023".
So some of the jeeps were out on trail rides of various levels of skills.
This all tickled me - being a former Jeep owner.
I loved seeing them all.
I was so excited to start going on short little hikes that led to wonderful views.
The arches are incredible to see and climb near.
The trails were so exciting, you never knew what sight you'd see over a hill or around the corner.
I love the Juniper trees - They smelled so good!
And I loved the cactus in the park.
It was perfect hiking weather - mid 40's.
Perhaps because we don't have these plants, I loved seeing them.
The Arches National Park was one of my favorites - maybe because I was able to hike on so many trails. My husband was so patient and let me explore to my hearts content. It would be cool to be there in the night too - to see the stars through the Arch Windows.
I am so happy we were able to get in.
I wasn't a fan of the reservation system, until we were in and the crowds were controlled. I think they are on to something, even if it is inconvenient and troublesome for the older not so internet savvy folks.
I get it though.
Even in the early spring, there were lines waiting to get in.
