Arches National Park, a captivating 76,000-acre expanse in Utah, showcases thousands of natural sandstone formations. Located just minutes from Moab, it’s a highlight among the state’s famed “Mighty Five” national parks, attracting approximately 1.5 million visitors annually for activities like hiking, biking, climbing, canyoneering, and horseback riding.
Even a leisurely visit offers profound enchantment. As Harry Bradley, general manager of the nearby glamping resort Ulum Moab, notes, “The magic of Arches lies in slowing down and absorbing the desert scenery.” His own cherished memory involves stargazing beneath the sandstone, a testament to the park’s stunning celestial displays.
Whether your aim is adventure, awe, or a blend of both, this guide outlines the essentials for planning an exceptional trip to Arches National Park.
How to Get There
Moab, Utah, serves as the primary gateway to Arches National Park, situated just five miles north via a clearly marked entrance off Highway 191. For direct access, fly into Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) in Moab. Alternatively, major carriers serve Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), a scenic approximately 230-mile drive southeast.
A rental car is highly recommended for seamless exploration, as the park lacks internal shuttle services. For a more eco-conscious or active approach, consider bicycle or e-bike rentals, or arrange guided excursions through local outfitters.
For a comprehensive natural immersion, Arches pairs exceptionally well with a visit to Canyonlands National Park, located a mere 26 miles west.
Know Before You Go
Arches National Park is accessible 24/7, but experiences peak visitor numbers from March through October. To mitigate crowds and secure parking, the National Park Service advises arriving before 8 a.m. or after 3 p.m. Be prepared for the arid desert climate by staying consistently hydrated; the NPS recommends consuming ample water and supplementing with salty snacks to aid retention.
Furthermore, be aware that the period from summer into fall is wildfire season in southern Utah. While fires are generally localized, maintaining vigilance and adhering to fire prevention guidelines is crucial for protecting the delicate ecosystem.
Best Time to Visit
Arches experiences peak visitation from March to late October. During the summer months (July and August), daytime temperatures can exceed 100°F; it is advisable to plan activities around sunrise and sunset, or embrace the nocturnal beauty with ranger-led stargazing tours.
Spring and autumn offer more temperate conditions, making them particularly appealing. Bradley suggests, “Fall is a time when cooler temperatures roll in and the crowds thin out, creating the perfect setting for a quieter, more intimate experience. It’s truly one of the best times to explore, unwind, and enjoy the landscape without the usual bustle.”
Winter brings cooler temperatures, with highs typically ranging from 30°F to 50°F. While visitor numbers are lower and some services are reduced (including ranger programs), winter provides a tranquil Arches experience. Be mindful of potential ice on trails and the possibility of temporary road closures due to snowfall.
Best Things to Do
Hike beneath arches. Immerse yourself in the park’s geological marvels with over 40 hiking trails offering intimate encounters with the sandstone formations. Many routes provide accessible paths beneath the arches and alongside towering fins. For the truly adventurous, backcountry multi-day treks are available with a permit, requiring thorough preparation due to limited resources.
Stargaze. As an International Dark Sky Park, Arches offers unparalleled opportunities for celestial observation. The night skies are exceptionally clear, revealing a breathtaking panorama of stars, galaxies, and planets. Consider a viewpoint like Double Arch for an unobstructed view of the cosmos above the ancient sandstone.
Take a scenic drive. The 18-mile scenic drive is a highlight in itself, winding past iconic formations such as Balanced Rock, Sand Dune Arch, and the Great Wall. Detours lead to must-see spots like Delicate Arch and The Windows Section. Allocate two to three hours for a leisurely drive, or longer if you plan to incorporate trail explorations.
Bike around the sandstone. For an invigorating way to experience the park, rent a bicycle or e-bike. All paved and unpaved roads within Arches are open to cyclists. Bike rentals are readily available in Moab. While mountain biking is not permitted within the park, Moab offers numerous trails nearby for off-road enthusiasts.
Try canyoneering. Venture off the beaten path with guided canyoneering tours, available with a permit or through ranger-led Fiery Furnace excursions. For a more comprehensive experience, outfitters like Moab Adventure Center lead trips just outside the park, offering safe yet thrilling opportunities for rappelling and rock climbing amidst stunning landscapes.
Plan a picnic. Bradley recommends taking time to relax and appreciate the natural beauty. “Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic in the Devils Garden area,” he suggests. “It’s one of the most picturesque spots to unwind and soak up the desert beauty.”
Best Hikes
Delicate Arch. As Bradley notes, “Delicate Arch is the park’s most iconic hike,” particularly stunning at sunrise. This 3-mile round-trip trail involves an elevation gain of approximately 530 feet, leading to the magnificent 46-foot-tall freestanding arch. For easier viewing, utilize the Lower and Upper Delicate Arch viewpoints.
Devils Garden. This area, located about 45 minutes north of the visitor center, features a remarkable collection of arches, fins, and spires. The relatively flat 1.8-mile round-trip trail to Landscape Arch is a popular choice. For a more challenging trek, the 4-mile round-trip route to Double O Arch includes steep sections and scrambling.
The Windows. Situated approximately two-thirds up the scenic drive, The Windows Section offers a concentration of impressive arches. A roughly one-mile loop from the parking lot provides views of the North and South Window arches. Nearby, the half-mile Double Arch Trail leads to a colossal natural formation.
Places to Stay
While Moab offers a wide array of accommodation choices, for an unparalleled experience, consider staying within or near the park.
Devils Garden Campground. As the only campground within the park, Devils Garden offers 51 sites for an immersive experience among the sandstone formations. Reservations are essential from March 1 through October 31, as sites typically fill nightly. Outside this period, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ulum Moab. This luxurious glamping retreat, located 25 minutes south of Moab, provides 50 upscale safari tents. Guests can indulge in fine dining, enjoy complimentary on-site activities such as sunrise yoga and sound baths, and explore the adjacent Looking Glass Arch.
Slackline Moab, Outset Collection by Hilton. Conveniently located less than a 10-minute drive from Arches National Park’s entrance, this 138-room property offers essential amenities, including a gear shop, coffee bar, on-site guides, and dog-friendly accommodations. Options range from standard rooms to spaces for camper vans and RVs (maximum 20 feet).
Places to Eat
Moab boasts a vibrant culinary scene, offering diverse options to suit every palate.
98 Center Moab. This popular local spot on Center Street serves innovative Vietnamese fusion cuisine, from banh mi nachos to diverse cheesesteak options, complemented by local kombucha.
Moab Diner. A classic diner experience awaits on Main Street, offering comfort food staples like pancakes and biscuits and gravy. Don’t miss the signature green chili omelet for a regional flavor.
Moab Coffee Roaster. Start your day with freshly roasted coffee and delicious breakfast items at this Main Street favorite. They also offer smoothies, juices, and artisanal ice cream and gelato.
Business Style Takeaway: Arches National Park provides a unique blend of natural wonder and adventure, ideal for executives seeking to disconnect and recharge. The park’s dramatic landscapes and opportunities for both strenuous activity and quiet contemplation offer a refreshing escape, while luxurious nearby accommodations like Ulum Moab ensure comfort and style.
Source: : www.travelandleisure.com