Exploring Arches National Park: A Comprehensive Guide
Arches National Park, located just minutes from the adventure hub of Moab, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This 76,000-acre desert landscape is home to thousands of natural sandstone formations, including some of the most iconic arches in the world. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive, a hike, or simply looking to stargaze under the dark skies, there’s something for everyone at Arches.
How to Get There
Moab serves as the perfect base camp for exploring Arches National Park. The park is only five miles north of the town, with a well-marked entrance off U.S. Highway 191. To reach Moab, you can fly into Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) or fly into Salt Lake City and drive 234 miles southeast. Renting a car offers the most flexibility, as there are no shuttles within the park. Alternatively, consider renting a bike or e-bike, or booking a tour with a local outfitter.
Arches pairs well with a visit to another of Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks, such as Canyonlands National Park, which is just 26 miles to the west.
Know Before You Go
During peak season, from early April to July and late August through October, Arches implements a timed-entry system for visitors between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. This system ensures a smoother experience by regulating when visitors can enter the park. However, it does not limit how long you can stay; the park is open 24 hours a day. Timed-entry tickets can be booked up to six months in advance.
Prepare for the dry heat, especially during the summer months. The National Park Service recommends packing salty snacks and staying hydrated. Additionally, be aware that wildfire season runs from summer into fall in southern Utah. While fires are typically localized, taking extra fire-prevention measures is essential.
Best Time to Visit
Arches sees the most visitors between March and late October. Summer temperatures can exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit during midday, so it’s best to plan your activities around sunrise and sunset or even at night. During these times, rangers often lead stargazing and full-moon tours.
Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit. However, keep in mind that the timed-entry system is still in effect during this period. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, consider arriving outside of the regulated 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. hours.
Winter brings cooler temperatures, with highs between 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. While the park is less crowded, services such as ranger programs may be limited. Be prepared for potential ice on the trails and possible road closures due to heavy snowfall.
Best Things to Do
Hike Beneath Arches
Hiking allows you to get up close to the stunning sandstone formations. Arches offers over 40 hiking routes, ranging from easy to challenging. Experienced hikers can embark on multi-day backpacking trips, but remember to carry enough food and water, as backcountry resources are limited.
Stargaze
In 2019, Arches was certified as a Dark Sky Park by DarkSky International. This means you can enjoy breathtaking views of the night sky, with stars, galaxies, and planets shining above the ancient sandstone. Head to a viewpoint like Double Arch for an unforgettable stargazing experience.
Take a Scenic Drive
The 18-mile scenic drive is a highlight of any visit to Arches. This paved route takes you past many of the park’s most iconic landmarks, including Balanced Rock, Sand Dune Arch, and the Great Wall. Detours lead to Delicate Arch and the Windows Section. Allocate two to three hours for the drive, but take more time if you want to explore the trails.
Bike Around the Sandstone
Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on all paved and unpaved roads in the park. Local outfitters like Bike Fiend offer rentals, and Moab’s canyon and mesa trails provide excellent opportunities for off-road adventures.
Try Canyoneering
Canyoneering offers a unique way to explore the park’s rugged terrain. You can attempt it on your own with a permit, or join a ranger-led tour. For more advanced experiences, book a trip with an outfitter like Moab Adventure Center.
Plan a Picnic
Take a break and enjoy a picnic in one of the park’s scenic spots. Devils Garden is a particularly picturesque area for unwinding among the red rocks.
Best Hikes
Delicate Arch
This iconic hike is a must for any visitor. The round-trip trail is three miles long and gains 480 feet in elevation. The view of the 46-foot-tall arch at sunrise is unforgettable. Lower and Upper Delicate Arch viewpoints also offer great vantage points.
Devils Garden
This area features a variety of arches, fins, and spires. The 1.9-mile round-trip trail to Landscape Arch is relatively flat, while the four-mile round-trip to Double O Arch offers a more challenging trek.
The Windows
Located about two-thirds of the way along the scenic drive, the Windows Section is a popular spot for hiking. The one-mile loop to North and South Window provides panoramic views of the Colorado Plateau, while the half-mile Double Arch Trail offers a more relaxed experience.
Places to Stay
Devils Garden Campground
For those who want to sleep among the park’s surreal sandstone, Devils Garden Campground is the only camping option within the park. Reservations are required from March 1 through October 31, and it fills up quickly.
ULUM Moab
For a luxury glamping experience, ULUM Moab offers 50 upscale safari tents, fine dining, and complimentary onsite experiences like sunrise yoga and s’mores. The property is located 25 minutes south of Moab and is close to Looking Glass Arch.
Field Station Moab
This 139-room retreat opened in 2023 and offers gear rentals, a stocked equipment shop, and dog-friendly accommodations. It’s located just minutes from the park entrance and is ideal for adventurers.
Places to Eat
98 Center Moab
This locally loved restaurant serves Vietnamese fusion dishes, including banh mi nachos and vegan cheesesteaks. Don’t miss the Sunday brunch special: French toast banh mi.
Moab Diner
A classic diner offering comfort food like pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and green chili omelets. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
Moab Coffee Roaster
Fuel up with freshly roasted coffee and savory breakfast bites. The shop also offers smoothies, juices, and gelato. Try the affogato for a post-hike treat.
