Very nearly the last picture I would have had of Sheryl.

We started up Delicate Arch mid afternoon, with the plan to see the arch at sunset. It was nearly 100 degrees that day and we planned well by taking a gallon and a half of water. The hike starts at 4300 feet of elevation and climbs slickrock to 4800 feet.

The combination of the heat of the day and relentless sun proved too much for Sheryl who severely overheated. We found some shade (a crack in a rock combined with my shadow) that did enough to cool her down to where she could continue. Unfortunately, our ice cold gallon of water turned to jacuzzi temp water after about 45 minutes, so drinking hot water was of no help.

We learned a valuable lesson that day on how to keep cool and hydrated in the desert that we love. We also now carry a satellite-linked emergency transponder for our jaunts into the wilderness.