The Delicate Arch means many things to many people, and for the young couple in this photo, it represents the beginning of a new chapter—the start of a new life.
Look closely at this image, and you’ll see a man on bended knee asking for his girl’s hand. Ryder-Walker guide Ken Fuhrer and his guests stopped to admire the view during our Arches & Canyonlands hiking tour when the two hikers appeared and the guy suddenly went down on one knee.
It is no surprise that this gentleman picked the Delicate Arch to profess his love. The scenery alone is enough to make a person melt, with the red Entrada sandstone contrasting perfectly against the white, snow-capped peaks of the La Sal Mountains.
When we look at this image, however, we see more than just a good view. We see harmony and the joining of two parts to create a more perfect whole.
It may not seem apparent at first glance, but the Delicate Arch actually consists of two parts. Red Entrada sandstone forms the base and pillars of the arch, while rock from the Curtis Formation makes up the bridge. A long time ago, there was no arch, only layers of sand and muck. The layers eventually fused, and today, sculpted, weathered and eroded by time, the formations endure, creating a unique whole and something beautiful for all the world to enjoy.
We don’t know what happened to the couple in this photo, but we hope that their relationship, like the Delicate Arch, stands the test of time and leads to something special. We wish the same for our blog readers too. Wherever you are, and whomever you’re with, we wish you love in the great outdoors, and an infinite world of possibilities.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
