Arches National Park in Moab, Utah, is a spectacular, otherworldly landscape full of unique rock formations that are startlingly red, so it's no surprise that it has become a hotspot for travelers from around the world. If you're imagining yourself standing alone, taking in the awe-inspiring desert, you might be disappointed, at least during the park's busiest months. More than 1.5 million people visit the park every year, and it's one of those iconic national parks that actually requires reservations
to manage crowds in the summer. If you want to see some of the same glorious natural architecture without battling crowds for the view or waiting in line to get in, consider the nearby Fisher Towers Trail. Just like Arches, this incredible route is in Moab, Utah (which also happens to be one of the best cities in America for solo travelers), so the feeling is quite similar. It takes you to the Fisher Towers, a unique view you can't get anywhere else on earth -- not even Arches National Park.
The Fisher Towers that the trail is named for are well worth the journey to see them up close. They look more like the skyline of an alien city than natural rock formations. These sheer, ridgy spires are impressively red, and unless you're going to get out your cams and nuts and climb up the side (which is considered one of the hardest desert climbs you can attempt), there's no better way to see the Fisher Towers than this hike. You should expect to be on this fascinating trail for at least three hours before you're back at the trailhead, and possibly longer depending on how long you want to spend looking at the towers themselves.
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How To Hike The Fisher Towers Trail
If you're flying into the area, you'll either come in at Canyonlands Regional Airport (CNY) or have to head to Grand Junction Regional Airport or Salt Lake City Airport and drive to Moab. From the city, you'll drive about 40 minutes to the trailhead (N 38 43.489', W 109 18.531'). Expect rough dirt roads along the way. There is a small campground close to the parking area that allows hikers to set up their tents for the night. If you're able to snag one, starting this hike early in the morning can help you get a more private experience on the trail.
This trail itself is considered moderately challenging, but it's definitely not one of those national park trails that are only for experienced hikers. Just make sure to come prepared for the heat and the conditions on this desert trail. It takes travelers down into canyons and along ridges to rocky outlooks, before leading them up to see the tallest Fisher Tower, known as the Titan. Expect a short metal ladder at one point, and a tricky exposed ledge later at another. The views are spectacular all along the trail, and you'll find multiple good spots to stop, look around, and take in the sights before you have to get back to the hike. The way to the towers is considered more strenuous than the way back to the trailhead, but you should still make sure to leave yourself with more than enough time, energy, and supplies to make it back to your car or campsite.
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Read the original article on Islands.
