Exploring Arches National Park
Since time immemorial, Mother Nature has been hard at work in Arches National Park, famous for its namesake rock formations that splash soaring arcs of red-orange sandstone against the bright blue sky of Utah. True to its name, Arches boasts the highest concentration of natural stone arches anywhere on Earth, featuring the graceful 306ft-long Landscape Arch and the tucked-away Delicate Arch, a Utah icon so photo-worthy that it’s emblazoned on the state’s license plates.
As one of Utah’s “Mighty 5” national parks, Arches is a world of geological wonders. Its giant rock fins, precariously balanced rocks, and iconic formations draw in hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Here’s what you need to know to plan an awesome trip to Arches National Park.
When Should I Go to Arches National Park?
Weather-wise, the best time to visit Arches National Park is in April, May, September, or October; however, these months are also some of the busiest. The number of park visitors skyrockets around public holidays and in the summer months when kids are out of school.
Typically, Arches brings in the most visitors in May, but if you can contend with freezing and potentially snowy weather, January sees far fewer visitors. In fact, January 2023 had 143% fewer visitors than May of the same year, according to National Park Service statistics.
In 2022, Arches National Park implemented a timed entry system to manage visitor numbers during peak times. From April 1 through October 31, between 7am and 4pm daily, travelers must have a timed entry ticket to access the park. More details on Arches’ timed entry can be found on their official site.
While summer visits are popular, be aware that daytime temperatures can soar, with highs reaching 100°F (38°C) in July. This isn’t the ideal time for strenuous hikes, especially with children in tow.
How Much Time Should I Spend at Arches National Park?
If you don’t have much time, you can see the highlights of Arches in just half a day. However, staying a few extra days allows you to enjoy some of Utah’s best hikes and other activities around the gateway town of Moab. Canyonlands National Park is also just a short drive away.
The park’s only paved road winds 18 miles from the visitor center to a loop at Devils Garden. If your time is limited, embark on this scenic drive and stop at all the roadside viewpoints and trailheads for short hikes. Must-see stops include Balanced Rock, where a massive boulder teeters atop a pedestal; The Windows, known for its towering arches; and Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint, which presents the most famous formation from a distance.
With more time, tackle longer trails in Arches, such as Devils Garden, Delicate Arch, and Fiery Furnace—if you can secure a permit. Remember that the arches extend beyond park boundaries; Moab and its stunning surroundings offer a plethora of outdoor activities, from quieter hikes to whitewater rafting and climbing.
Is It Easy to Get to and Around Arches National Park?
Yes, getting to Arches National Park is straightforward, but you’ll need a car to make the most of your visit. The vast distances between viewpoints and trailheads mean there is no shuttle service or public transportation within the park. Parking can be challenging at popular trailheads, and you may have to wait for a spot to open up during peak times.
Several companies operate bus tours through Arches, providing guided tours of the national park.
The nearby Canyonlands Field Airport, located 18 miles north of Moab, offers flights to Denver and Salt Lake City; however, most visitors fly into larger airports and then drive to Arches National Park. For a scenic arrival, consider Amtrak’s cross-country California Zephyr train, which stops in Green River, north of Moab.
Top Things to See and Do
Many of Arches’ main sights are easily accessible by paved roads, making a scenic drive through the park a must. Delicate Arch is the most popular hike, and it’s worth the effort to reach its breathtaking conclusion.
The Windows area has more accessible arches for those who prefer easy hikes. An easy one-mile loop trail gently climbs to three enormous photogenic arches, offering an understanding of their immensity up close. Don’t miss Double Arch, the tallest in the park at 112ft (34m).
The Fiery Furnace, named for its stunning rock formations that glow red and orange at sunset, provides one of the most adventurous hikes. However, permits are required due to the advanced navigation and fitness level needed. First-timers are recommended to hike with a ranger for guidance.
Plan Your Budget for Arches National Park
The standard entrance pass for Arches National Park costs $30 per vehicle and is valid for seven days. If you’re planning on visiting multiple national parks, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful pass for $80, which covers all national parks and federal recreation lands for one vehicle or four per-person entry fees for a year.
Inside the park, the only camping option is Devils Garden Campground, with sites priced at $25 per night.
Do You Need Timed Entry Tickets to Visit Arches National Park?
If you’re planning to visit Arches between 7am and 4pm from April through October, you must reserve a timed entry ticket. This ticket allows you to enter during a specific one-hour window. During this peak time, tickets help manage the influx of visitors. However, you can visit at times outside of this window without a permit, but be prepared for lines during busy mornings.
What is the Closest City to Arches National Park?
Moab, Utah, is the closest city to Arches National Park, only three miles from the Visitor Center. Moab’s Main St is lined with hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and shops, providing everything you need for your trip. Notably, no dining options exist within the park itself.
Where’s the Best Place to Stay Near Arches National Park?
Inside the park, the only campground available is Devils Garden Campground; however, reservations fill up quickly. Numerous hotels are located in Moab, such as the Field Station, which features a minimalist design and various amenities. For a more nature-oriented experience, glamping options are available just outside the park, offering stunning views and unique activities.
