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.
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Things to do in Arches National Park
Top things to do in Arches National Park by www.earthtrekkers.com
Where to stay in Arches National Park
Best hotels in Arches National Park:
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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.
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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.
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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