Moab Fall 2010 – Behind Arches – Day 1

I planned a week long trip to Moab over Thanksgiving. The plan was to drive from Dewy Bridge, behind Arches then to head over and drive Lockhart Basin. The weather put a damper on my plans and I ended up only spending 2 nights in the Moab area before heading home.

Dawn breaks

I spent the first night near the Dewey bridge on the Kokopelli Trail. Having left Colorado Springs at noon I set camp shortly after leaving the pavement heading west on the Kokopelli Trail.

First camp

The following morning was a cold start with the temp at about 25 degrees. A hot of tea and a small breakfast it was time to break camp.

Near Yellow Jacket Canyon

Triss and I headed west following the Kokopelli Trail. The trail unfolded with a panorama of classic sandstone vistas. We passed a few arches and some other cool formations.

Triss checking out the view

After leaving the Kokopelli Trail and heading towards Arches we came across a large sandstone cave. Under the modern graffiti we cold see the outlines of big horn sheep etched in the rock by native Americans years ago. The caves were formed by springs that slowly moved back through the rock.

Sandstone caves

We then worked our way through the Poison Strip and checked out some of the old uranium mines. The area is a maze of old mines and structures that were left behind.

Manti La Sal Mountains

We continued over to the Salt Valley and found a nice spot to spend the night.

Old truck in the Poison Strip

Additional Photos

Behind Arches Day 1

tomas

Tomas has lived in Colorado since age 5. Having grown up on the Western Slope of Colorado lots of time was spent in the Desert Southwest. Tomas' father introduced him to the love of 4 wheeling at an early age in the high mountains around Aspen, Colorado. While an avid Mountain Biker, Tomas and his Family enjoy adventures in the mountains and desert in the remote locations that can only be reached by 4wd. Day hikes are always a must when on the family trips. While enjoying outdoor activities he wants to share his love as a certified 4wd trainer and ski instructor. Tomas also enjoys caving and cave exploration. Tomas currently resides in Colorado Springs. 

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