National Park Service naturalists lead guided tours, as well, of the Fiery Furnace Walk. But stay on the path. Signs throughout Arches warn hikers not to step on the cryptobiotic crust. It looks like ash sprinkled across the sandy soil, but this crusty covering is ac tually composed of bacteria, lichen, algae and fungi, and it protects the soil against erosion. It also absorbs moisture and provides nutrients upon which many of the delicate desert plants depend.
Arches offers lessons on more than just geology.
Trail signs are translated into both French and German. On our short hike toward Delicate Arch, we followed in the footsteps of some young French people complaining about the climb. Stopping in Utah on a cross-country drive, we had just one af ternoon to spend in Arches. It's worthwhile to plan a trip around sunset, when sandstone colors change from burnished bronze to brilliant red. For those who appreciate the creature comforts, the nearby town of Moab is filled with hotels and restaurants.