Arches National Park

Nestled in the heart of southeastern Utah, Arches National Park stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. With over 2,000 natural stone arches, plus numerous towering pinnacles and colossal balanced rocks, Arches invites adventurers, photographers, and dreamers to explore its surreal beauty. Whether you’re planning your first or repeat visit, Arches National Park offers many experiences, sights, and insights that promise to leave you in awe. 

The Majestic Arches: Nature’s Sculptures 

Arches National Park is a trove of geological wonders, each arch a unique formation shaped by the hands of time, water, and forces of erosion. These natural arches, crafted from layers of Entrada and Navajo sandstone, range from slender slivers to massive gateways. The most iconic arch in the park: Delicate Arch, the symbol of Utah, standing against the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. 

The Best Things to Do in Arches National Park 

Arches National Park isn’t just a destination; it’s a portal to extraordinary experiences, each offering a unique way to connect with the natural world.  

Look for Arches 

Start your adventure at the Visitor Center, where you can pick up an Arches National Park map. Popular highlights include visits to Delicate Arch, the expansive Landscape Arch, the intertwined Double Arch, and the North and South Window Arches known as the Spectacles. Also, don’t miss the chance to see Partition Arch, Navajo Arch, Broken Arch, and Turret Arch.  

Tip: Consider downloading an offline map of the park before you go if you prefer to use your phone for navigation since service can be spotty. 

Stargazing 

Arches National Park is a certified International Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places on Earth to gaze at the stars. Away from city lights, the night sky reveals a canvas of twinkling stars, planets, and even the Milky Way, offering a profound sense of wonder and connection to the universe. You can join a ranger-led night sky program or find your own perfect spot for stargazing.  

Arches National Park Hikes 

Hiking in Arches National Park is like walking through a natural gallery, with each trail offering a different perspective of the park’s beauty. The best hikes in Arches range from family-friendly paths to more challenging treks that reward the intrepid with unparalleled views. Visit popular arches with a private guided hike; join a local guide on a half-day Arches Discovery Tour, combining driving and walking to explore the park’s many highlights; or venture on your own to discover these natural formations at your own pace. 

• Delicate Arch Trail: This famous and rewarding three-mile round-trip hike culminates at the base of the park’s symbolic arch. The journey is as breathtaking as the destination, with open vistas stretching to the La Sal Mountains. 
• Devils Garden Loop: A challenging 7.8-mile trek that introduces hikers to eight magnificent arches, including the awe-inspiring Landscape Arch. It’s a journey that tests your endurance and rewards with solitude and beauty. 
• Windows Loop: An easy one-mile stroll suitable for all ages, this loop takes you up close to two of the park’s massive arches, North and South Window, offering spectacular photo opportunities. 
• Fiery Furnace: A guided hike through a labyrinth of sandstone canyons offers a close-up look at the park’s intricate rock formations. Reservations are necessary for this adventurous, two-mile scramble. 
• Park Avenue Trail: This one-mile one-way trail gives you the sensation of walking through a city of towering stone skyscrapers, offering a striking introduction to the park’s massive formations. 
• Double Arch Trail: This easy, 0.5-mile round trip takes you to the base of two giant arches that share a foundation. It provides a unique photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the scale of geological time. 

Arches Scenic Drive 

The Arches Scenic Drive is an immersive journey through the park’s heart, offering access to major viewpoints and trailheads. This fully paved, 25-mile out-and-back route is a fantastic way to witness the grand scale of the park’s landscapes, making it a must-do for first-time visitors and those who want to explore the park from the comfort of their vehicle. You’ll want 3-5 hours for the self-driving tour to stop at viewpoints and enjoy a short hike. 

Photography 

Photographers will find endless inspiration in Arches National Park. The interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colors of sunrise and sunset, and the dramatic weather conditions present an ever-changing landscape. Delicate Arch at sunset and Turret Arch through the North Window at sunrise are just a few of the countless opportunities to capture the park’s majestic beauty. 

Arches National Park offers activities that inspire, challenge, and refresh the spirit. Whether standing beneath a star-studded sky, trekking through timeless landscapes, capturing the perfect sunrise, or simply soaking in the desert’s beauty, Arches provides a backdrop for experiences that resonate long after the journey home. 

Visitor Information 

Planning your visit to Arches National Park requires some preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s what you need to know: 

• Park Passes: Entrance to Arches National Park requires a park pass, which can be purchased at the entrance or online in advance. The pass covers all passengers in a personal vehicle and is valid for seven consecutive days. 
• Parking Reservations: Due to the park’s popularity, a parking reservation system has been implemented to manage congestion and protect the natural landscape. More information on reservations can be found here.