Desert Solitaire by Edward Abbey

Edward Abbey is a famous western writer who was also a ranger at Arches National Park in the 50s. He spent a lot of his time observing the slow ambulation of desert life and experiencing the tyrannical summer heat. In Desert Solitaire he amusingly describes his attempts to deter the infringement of progress upon the then still largely rugged and remote area. It is said that the Fiery Furnace was his favorite place inside the park! Desert Solitaire is a must read for anyone visiting Arches National Park and wanting to understand the hidden, but dynamic pulse of the desert. Reading it, you will perceive the desert's quiet beauty beyond the crowds and noise of today. This experience is even more significant while hiking the Fiery Furnace.