As the morning sun painted the red rocks of Arches National Park with hues of warmth (maybe not so much warmth it was 30 degrees), our family geared up for a day of exploration in the Fiery Furnace. Determined to turn this adventure into a lesson in navigation, leadership, and resilience, I handed over the reins to my kids, arming them with GPS devices in an attempt to conquer the confusing labyrinth that awaited us.
The decision to let my children take the lead was met with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Would they navigate the intricate twists and turns successfully, or would we find ourselves lost in the heart of this rugged terrain? They didn’t start of strong, immediately leading us down the incorrect path and missing their first turn.
After we corrected that first mistake, we delved into the depths of the Fiery Furnace, Lomatium and Krill canyon beckoned, their names carrying an air of mystery and adventure. The GPS devices in the hands of my children leading us through the maze of towering walls and tight cracks. Surprisingly, they demonstrated an impressive aptitude for route finding, and our wrong turns became markers of laughter and valuable lessons.
The climbing, stemming, crawling, and jumping over cracks were the highlights of our collective journey. Each obstacle was an opportunity for my kids to help each other and make decisions that guided us through the intricate network of canyons. As the day unfolded the kids enjoyed searching for all the hidden arches (Surprise, Sliver, Skull, and Kissing Turtle Arches to name a few) adding an extra layer of excitement. The Fiery Furnace became a great classroom.
Despite a handful of wrong turns that led us to backtrack, the setbacks only fueled our determination to conquer the Furnace. It was hard at times for me not to give directions and follow my kids. I estimate we spent an extra hour of hiking due to wrong turns and getting lost. I’m happy to report that I stayed strong and followed them the whole way through. The culmination of our journey was marked by the exhilarating descent known as the “Belly of the Whale,” a rappel that drops you into a crack that widens on both sides giving the appearance of rappelling into a whale stomach.
As the sun dipped low to the horizon, casting long shadows over the red rocks, we reflected on a day well spent—a day that transformed the Fiery Furnace from a challenging landscape into family bonding. Our adventure became more than just a physical exploration; it became a shared story of resilience, leadership, and the spirit of a family navigating the twists and turns of life together.
If you haven’t visited The Fiery Furnace in Arches National Park, I highly recommend it. To help you plan a trip here is some useful information:
Fiery Furnace Overview
Arches National Park Permits:
Reservation Process: To obtain a Self-Guided Fiery Furnace Exploration Permit, head to Recreation.gov or call Recreation.gov at 1-877-444-6777. It’s essential to secure permits online, and in-person reservations are not available. The cost as of 2023 is $10/person.
Booking Details: Ensure you reserve your permit at least two days ahead of your planned trip, with a maximum booking window of seven days in advance. Group sizes are limited to six individuals, and please note that children under the age of five and pets are not permitted. During busier seasons permits will sell out within an hour of becoming available.
Permit Validity: Fiery Furnace permits are valid only for the specified date and are for day-use exclusively, ranging from sunrise to sunset. Plan your adventure accordingly within these time frames.
Educational Requirement: Prior to embarking on your self-guided exploration, all members of your hiking party must attend a mandatory educational video session and orientation talk.
Permit Pickup: Reserved permits can be picked up either the day before or on the day of your adventure. Visit the Arches National Park Visitor Center between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. to collect your permit, noting that permits will not be issued after 3 p.m.
Private Use Only: Self-Guided Fiery Furnace Exploration Permits are designated for private use only. Commercial groups are not allowed in the Fiery Furnace. For commercial use, refer to approved trails on the Commercial Use Authorizations Conditions page.
Hiking Information:
Fiery Furnace is a unique and challenging area, even for Arches National Park. It is characterized by towering sandstone walls, narrow passages, and hidden arches. While guided ranger tours are available and recommended for those unfamiliar with the terrain, experienced hikers can explore the area independently with a permit.
The labyrinthine network of fins, canyons, and arches provides an exhilarating hiking and scrambling experience. The difficulty of route finding becomes a thrilling aspect of the adventure, requiring a keen eye and a sense of exploration that transcends the ordinary. Amidst this red rock maze, reliance on GPS devices may prove unreliable, emphasizing the importance of good route finding skills to navigate the Furnace’s twists and turns successfully.
Canyoneering Information:
Unlocking the secrets of Fiery Furnace goes beyond hiking its twisting trails; it beckons those with a taste for adventure to delve into the heart of canyoneering. Among the many exhilarating options, Lomatium and Krill Canyon stand out as captivating routes that weave through the stunning red rock formations. These routes demand technical skills, and it’s advisable to tackle them with someone experienced in the area. The Belly of the Whale rappel is a notable feature, offering a thrilling descent for those seeking an extra dose of excitement. Here is information specific to that route
Rating:3A III PG
Rappels: 3-4
Biggest Rappel: 120 feet
Time Requirement: 5 – 7 hours
Navigating the intricate landscape of Fiery Furnace, characterized by its labyrinthine network of fins and spires, poses a unique challenge. The margin for error in relying solely on GPS points is considerable, making it virtually impossible to provide accurate and meaningful beta for independent exploration. Given this complexity, it is strongly advisable for adventurers to consider going with someone familiar with the route first. The assistance of a knowledgeable partner not only enhances safety but also enriches the experience by offering invaluable insights into the nuances of this captivating terrain.
Below is the route I took for Lomatium and Krill Canyons, which I obtained from Ropewiki. The nature of the Fiery Furnace allows for many different route options. You can explore as many areas and routes as your heart desires.
Fiery Furnace Tips:
- Secure Permits in Advance: Ensure you obtain a permit for Fiery Furnace in advance, either by reserving online through Recreation.gov or calling 1-877-444-6777. Permits are required for all visitors, including those on guided tours.
- Join a Guided Tour or Hike with Experience: If it’s your first time or you’re unfamiliar with the area, consider joining a guided tour provided by the Arches National Park Rangers. Alternatively, if you choose to explore independently, it might be beneficial to hike with someone experienced in the unique challenges of Fiery Furnace.
- Learn Route-Finding Skills: Fiery Furnace’s intricate network of canyons and fins can be disorienting. Take the time to learn route-finding skills, and if possible, familiarize yourself with the terrain through maps and guides before your visit.
- Wear Sturdy Footwear and Dress Appropriately: The terrain can be rugged, so wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip. Dress in layers, considering the desert climate, and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
- Watch the Weather: Check weather conditions before your visit. Fiery Furnace can become slippery when wet, so avoid exploring during or after rain. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential for protection from the desert sun.
- Educational Video and Orientation: You’ll be required to watch an educational video and attend the orientation talk at the Arches National Park Visitor Center. This will provide valuable information about the unique features and challenges of Fiery Furnace.
- Permit Pickup and Timing: If you’ve reserved a permit online, pick it up at the Arches Visitor Center the day before or on the day of your hike. Plan your visit within the day-use hours, and make sure you have plenty of time to play in and explore the Fiery Furnace
- Carry a Map and Compass: While GPS devices might not be entirely reliable, having a map and compass can be crucial for navigation, especially in the intricate canyons of Fiery Furnace.
- Stay Hydrated and fueled: Drink plenty of water and eat high energy food.
- Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles by carrying out all waste and minimizing your impact on the environment. Help preserve the beauty of Fiery Furnace for future generations.
As you venture into the heart of Fiery Furnace, you’ll embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary and unfolds within the red rock of Arches National Park. Whether you choose the guidance of experienced rangers or the thrill of independent exploration, Fiery Furnace captivates with its labyrinthine canyons, towering spires, and hidden arches. It is a realm where the desert comes alive and where every twist and turn unveils a new marvel. As you navigate this landscape, remember to tread lightly, and savor the exhilaration of discovering the untamed beauty that defines Fiery Furnace for those who dare to wander off the beaten path.
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This is a great article and very informative. Thanks Nate!
Thanks Brad, have you done this hike yet?