Arches National Park
Arches National Park
Arches National Park is a captivating red-rock playground in Utah that's home to over 2,000 natural stone arches - the highest concentration in the world. This spectacular landscape has been sculpted by millions of years of erosion, creating not just arches but also towering spires, balanced rocks, and massive fins of sandstone.
The park's most famous landmark is probably Delicate Arch, which appears on Utah's license plates and has become an icon of the American Southwest. But there's so much more to see - Landscape Arch stretches over 300 feet long, making it one of the longest natural stone arches anywhere.
What's fascinating about Arches is how the landscape continues to change. These formations aren't permanent - several notable arches have collapsed in recent decades, reminding visitors that this is a dynamic, evolving environment.
Native Americans have connections to this land going back thousands of years, with petroglyphs still visible in some areas of the park. Later, cowboys, miners, and filmmakers were drawn to the unique scenery. The area was designated as a national monument in 1929 before becoming a national park in 1971.
The park sits at a higher elevation than you might expect (around 5,000 feet), creating interesting temperature contrasts between scorching summer days and surprisingly cool nights. This high desert environment supports a surprising variety of plant and animal life that has adapted to the harsh conditions.
ratings
| Category | Rating | Your Rating |
|---|---|---|
| atmosphere |
|
|
| culture |
|
|
| food |
|
|
| hiking |
|
|
| scenery |
|
|
| tourism |
|
|
| wildlife |
|
|
Things to do in Arches National Park
-
Off-Road Adventure in Arches National Park
Get ready for an epic 4x4 adventure through the stunning landscape of Arches National Park! This half-day tour takes you off the beaten path to explore some of the park's most impressive natural wonders. You'll cruise along rugged trails, climbing steep rock walls and winding through valleys filled with towering sandstone formations.
The highlights include up-close views of the massive 92-foot Tower Arch, the unique Eye of the Whale Arch, and the iconic Marching Men - a row of seven towering rock pillars. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts about how these incredible red rock formations came to be over millions of years. There are plenty of stops for photos and short hikes to viewpoints you can't reach by regular car.
As you bump along old cowboy trails in your air-conditioned 4x4, keep an eye out for actual dinosaur tracks left behind eons ago. The tour offers a perfect mix of thrills and education, letting you experience Arches' grandeur without the crowds or difficult hikes. It's an unforgettable way to see this otherworldly landscape up close and personal. Just don't forget your camera - the views are out of this world!
Powered by GetYourGuide -
Hike to Delicate Arch
The hike to Delicate Arch is a must-do when visiting Arches National Park. This 3-mile round trip trail takes you through beautiful red rock landscapes to reach the park's most famous landmark. As you climb, you'll be treated to increasingly stunning views of the surrounding desert and distant mountains.
The last stretch of the hike is along a narrow rock ledge, adding a bit of excitement to the journey. When you finally round the corner and see Delicate Arch standing proudly against the blue sky, it's a truly breathtaking moment. The arch is much larger than you might expect, standing at 52 feet tall. Take your time to soak in the views, snap some photos, and marvel at this natural wonder.
It's best to start this hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes with good traction, as parts of the trail can be slippery.
-
Explore Double Arch
Double Arch is one of the most impressive and accessible features in Arches National Park. This unique formation consists of two arches that share the same stone foundation, creating a spectacular sight that's unlike anything else in the park.
The trail to Double Arch is short and easy, making it perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities. As you approach, you'll be struck by the sheer size of the arches - the larger of the two spans 144 feet, making it the third-largest arch in the park. You can walk right up to the base of the arches and even climb around a bit for different perspectives.
The area around Double Arch is great for exploring. You'll find plenty of nooks and crannies to investigate, and the views of the surrounding landscape are fantastic. If you're feeling adventurous, you can scramble up the rocks under the arch for an even more impressive view. Just be careful and respect any closure signs you might see. This is a popular spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm.
-
Photograph Landscape Arch
Landscape Arch is one of the most impressive and photogenic features in Arches National Park. With a span of 306 feet, it's the longest arch in North America and a favorite subject for photographers from around the world.
The hike to Landscape Arch is relatively easy, about 1.6 miles round trip on a well-maintained trail. As you approach, you'll be struck by how delicate the arch looks - it's hard to believe that such a thin span of rock can support its own weight. The arch is particularly beautiful in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon when the shadows add depth and texture to the scene.
For the best photos, try different angles and compositions. Wide-angle lenses work well to capture the entire arch and its surroundings, while telephoto lenses can help you focus on interesting details or catch the play of light on the rock. Don't forget to include some of the surrounding landscape in your shots to give a sense of scale. And remember, while it's tempting to get the perfect shot, always stay on designated trails to protect the fragile desert environment.
-
Sunset at La Sal Mountains Viewpoint
Watching the sunset from the La Sal Mountains Viewpoint is a spectacular way to end a day in Arches National Park. This viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama of the park's red rock formations with the snow-capped La Sal Mountains in the background.
As the sun sinks towards the horizon, the landscape transforms. The red rocks seem to glow from within, their colors intensifying to deep reds and oranges. The contrast between the warm-toned desert and the cool blue mountains creates a stunning visual effect. The changing light casts long shadows across the landscape, highlighting the unique shapes of the rock formations.
Bring a camp chair or blanket so you can sit comfortably and take in the show. It's also a good idea to bring some snacks and water, and don't forget a jacket as it can get chilly once the sun goes down. After the sun sets, stick around for a while to watch the stars come out - the night sky here is incredible. This is a popular spot, so arrive a bit early to get a good viewing spot.
-
Bike the Park Road
Biking the main road through Arches National Park is an exhilarating way to experience the park's beauty. The 18-mile paved road winds through some of the most scenic areas of the park, offering close-up views of iconic formations like Balanced Rock and the Courthouse Towers.
Cycling allows you to move at your own pace, stopping whenever you want to take in the views or snap a photo. You'll feel more connected to the landscape than you would in a car, able to hear the desert winds and smell the sage. The ride involves some challenging climbs, but the descents are thrilling and the views at the top are worth the effort.
It's best to start early in the morning to avoid the heat and traffic. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and always yield to cars - the road can be narrow in places. If you don't have your own bike, you can rent one in nearby Moab. For a shorter ride, consider biking just to the Windows Section and back. Remember, safety first - wear a helmet and bright clothing to make yourself visible to drivers.
-
Ranger-led Fiery Furnace Hike
The Fiery Furnace is a maze-like area of narrow canyons, fins, and arches that offers one of the most unique hiking experiences in Arches National Park. Due to the complex nature of this area, it's best explored on a ranger-led hike.
On this adventure, you'll scramble over rocks, squeeze through narrow passages, and navigate twisting canyons. The ranger will guide you through the labyrinth while sharing fascinating information about the geology, plants, and animals of the area. You'll see hidden arches and unique rock formations that most park visitors never get to experience.
The hike is moderately strenuous and requires a good level of fitness and flexibility. You'll need to be comfortable with heights and tight spaces. But for those up for the challenge, it's an unforgettable experience. The ever-changing light in the narrow canyons creates beautiful effects, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Make sure to book your spot well in advance, as these tours often fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Where to stay in Arches National Park
Best hotels in Arches National Park:
-
My Place Hotel (luxury hotel)
My Place Hotel in Moab is a great spot for exploring Arches National Park. It's just a short drive away, making it super convenient for outdoor adventures. The rooms are spacious and come with kitchenettes, so you can save some cash by cooking your own meals. Plus, there's a fridge to keep your drinks cold after a hot day of hiking.
The hotel has a nice outdoor pool and hot tub with views of the surrounding mountains - perfect for relaxing those sore muscles after trekking through the park. The staff are friendly and helpful if you need tips on local attractions. Overall, it's a comfortable home base in a prime location for checking out all that Moab has to offer.
-
Moab Gateway Inn (medium range hotel)
Moab Gateway Inn is a great spot for exploring Arches National Park. It's just a short drive from the park entrance, making it super convenient for hikers and nature lovers. The rooms are comfy and have all the basics you need - AC, TV, and WiFi. Plus, there's free parking right at the hotel, which is always a bonus.
The location is definitely the highlight here. You're close to some awesome restaurants in Moab, and it's easy to get to other cool spots like Canyonlands National Park too. After a long day of hiking, it's nice to come back to a clean room and chill out. The staff are friendly and can give you tips on things to do in the area.
Moab Gateway Inn gets the job done if you're looking for a place to crash while exploring the parks. It's a good home base for adventures, and the price is pretty reasonable for the area. Just keep in mind it's more of a basic, no-frills kind of place - but that's all you really need when you're spending your days out in nature anyway.
-
WorldMark Moab (resort)
WorldMark Moab is a fantastic spot for exploring Utah's stunning red rock country. Just minutes from Arches National Park, this resort offers spacious suites with all the comforts of home. The grounds feature a beautiful pool area with fire pits - perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking.
The location can't be beat - it's close enough to pop into downtown Moab for dinner, but far enough out to feel peaceful. Rooms have full kitchens and living areas, making it easy to spread out. The free breakfast is a nice perk to fuel up before adventures.
With amenities like a fitness center, game room, and hot tubs, there's plenty to keep you entertained on-site too. The friendly staff are happy to offer tips on local attractions. Overall, WorldMark Moab is an ideal base for experiencing the natural wonders of southern Utah in comfort.
book now on booking.com