Arches National Park

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Arches National Park
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The Delicate Arch
IUCN category
Location	[[Grand County, Utah, United States]]
Nearest city	[[Moab]]
Area
Established	April 12, 1929
Visitors
Governing body	[[National Park Service]]
Website	[ Arches National Park]
This protected area related article is a stub.

Arches National Park is a national park in eastern Utah, United States. The park is adjacent to the Colorado River, 4 miles (6 km) north of Moab. It is known for preserving over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the world-famous Delicate Arch, as well as a variety of unique geological resources and formations.

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Geography

Arches National Park covers an area of 76,679 acres (31,031 ha). Its highest elevation is 5,653 feet (1,723 m) at Elephant Butte, and its lowest elevation is 4,085 feet (1,245 m) at the visitor center. The park contains the highest density of natural arches in the world.

Geology

The park's geology is characterized by a series of sedimentary rock layers that have been eroded over millions of years. The primary rock formations in the park are the Entrada Sandstone and the Navajo Sandstone. The unique arch formations are the result of the erosion of these rock layers, which were deposited during the Jurassic period.

History

Arches National Park was originally designated as a national monument on April 12, 1929, by President Herbert Hoover. It was later redesignated as a national park on November 12, 1971, by an act of Congress. The park has been inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Ute and Ancestral Puebloans.

Flora and Fauna

The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Common plants include yucca, juniper, and cactus. Wildlife in the park includes mule deer, red fox, desert cottontail, and various species of lizards and birds.

Recreation

Arches National Park offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing. Popular trails include the Delicate Arch Trail, the Devil's Garden Trail, and the Fiery Furnace. The park also offers ranger-led programs and educational opportunities.

Conservation

The park is managed by the National Park Service, which works to preserve its natural and cultural resources. Efforts include monitoring and protecting the park's arches and other geological features, as well as managing visitor impact.

Related Pages

• National Park Service
• List of national parks of the United States
• Geology of the United States
• Moab, Utah
• Colorado River