September 11, 2009, 6:26 pm
From September, 2009, until the end of October, Arches will be accepting online reservations for the popular Fiery Furnace tour. After this trial period, the system will be evaluated and may be continued next year.
The Fiery Furnace offers a labyrinth of narrow passageways and abrupt dead-ends among a series of sandstone fins. Though it does not encompass a very large area, it is easy to become disoriented or lost. For this reason, and to protect native plants and soils, visitors must join a guided hike, or obtain a special permit, in order to enter the Fiery Furnace.
Ranger-guided hikes through the Fiery Furnace are offered twice each day from March through October. These popular 2.5 to 3 hour hikes are moderately strenuous, requiring the occasional use of hands to scramble through narrow cracks and along narrow ledges (view photo gallery to better judge hike's difficulty). Maximum tour size is 25 people, 15 of whom may be from a single party. Larger groups can split up over separate walks or request a special tour. Due to the difficulty and length of the tour, it is not recommended for children under five years of age.
Fees are $10 for adults; $5 for children 7 to 12 years old as well as Interagency Senior Pass and Interagency Access pass holders. Kids up to 6 years old are free.
Due to their popularity, these hikes often fill in advance. Reservations can be made online at
www.recreation.gov. Reservations may also be made in person at the visitor center, but only up to seven days in advance.
