Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock in an iconic landmark within Arches National Park. Perched atop a hill, it can be easily spotted while driving through the park along the main road. A parking lot and short paved trail offer easy access to amazing views of this geological marvel and the distant mountains. There is a paved trail leading to the best views and a very short trail trail circling this very special destination. Unlike many of the other key landmarks of the park, its location allows it to be photographed throughout the day in great light. 

At sunrise, park in the lot and walk across the street and along the dirt road. Then climb the rock dome for a great composition of the distant mountains, glowing sky, and balanced rock. Use a standard zoom lens. In the afternoon, choose a wide angle or standard zoom lens and shoot from the pull-off along the road to the Windows section. At night, park in the lot and photograph from the paved trail leading to the arch. A wide or ultra-wide angle lens is a great choice, and don't forget the tripod.