Every year Arches National Park rangers respond to hundreds of search and rescue incidents, many of which involve heat exhaustion and dehydration. With temperatures soaring across the west, Arches wanted to illustrate just how hot some of their 2,000+ natural stone arches can become after baking in the summer sun. A park ranger armed with a handheld infrared digital thermometer headed out to Delicate Arch (the largest free-standing arch in the park) where they registered an incredible 149.4°F surface temperature (107.2°F in the shade).
Delicate Arch is among the top destinations at Arches National Park and park official want folks who plan on making the 3-mile roundtrip hike to see it up close to be aware of the heat related dangers involved and be well prepared as they frequently rescue people who underestimated the trail’s difficulty.
Arches recommend making the hike in the early morning when temperatures are cooler, carrying at least 2 liters of water along with electrolytes and snacks, wearing sun protection and making sure you have proper footwear that can withstand the extreme surface temperatures currently measured in the park. Also hikers should avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can be dehydrating.
Arches National Park Statement:
That Delicate Arch is so hot right now. In fact, the other day the rock surface clocked in at 149.4° Fahrenheit. Some might argue that’s hot, but some might argue that’s REALLY hot; either would be correct. Even the birds were raven about the heat. The raven was a little grumpy about the heat, but we still clocked the rock at 107.2°F in the shade.
Here at Arches National Park, and many of our surrounding parks, heat can kill. Come prepared for your trip, armed with knowledge, excitement, and more water than you think you could need. Trust us, it’s wicked important, otherwise you’ll look like this.
If you know you’re going to be hiking at Arches, consider prepping in some important ways:
– Plan your hike in the morning for cooler temperatures.
– Water, and lots of it (repetitive, yes, but SERIOUSLY important).
– Bring snacks with you that can hydrate you, like various fruits and veggies.
– Bring electrolytes with you, or snacks that can replenish electrolytes, like peanuts (unless you’re allergic, then please don’t bring peanuts).
– Bring the extra sun-safe goodies, like hats, shades, and sunscreen.
– Try to avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol before your hike. We love those morning coffee jitters, but they’re not very helpful in the heat.
Stay safe, stay smart, and recreate responsibly.
Arches National Park Heat & Sun Safety Guidelines:
During the summer, expect high temperatures, intense sunlight and low humidity. Eat plenty of food and drink at least one gallon of water, per person, each day. Carry and drink water (at least 2 liters) during all activities in the park, such as hiking. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin. Avoid hiking in the middle of the day. Save strenuous activity for early mornings or evenings. You can get water at the visitor center and at the Devils Garden trailhead and campground.
