Arches National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With over 2,000 natural stone arches, soaring pinnacles, and massive rock formations, this park is one of the most unique and beautiful destinations in the United States.
Lykkers, if you’re hiking through sandstone landscapes, marveling at the delicate arches, or photographing the incredible vistas, Arches National Park offers an experience that’s nothing short of magical.
Getting to Arches National Park
Located just five miles north of Moab, Utah, Arches National Park is easily accessible by car. The nearest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport in Moab, or you can fly into Salt Lake City and drive about four hours to reach the park. The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season.
When to Visit Arches National Park
The best times to visit Arches National Park are during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when the temperatures are cooler and the park is less crowded. Summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, making it more challenging for long hikes. However, early mornings and late afternoons offer more manageable temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography.
Top Attractions in Arches National Park
Delicate Arch: The park’s most iconic feature, Delicate Arch, is a must-see. Standing 46 feet high and gracefully perched on the edge of a natural rock amphitheater, this arch is one of the most photographed landmarks in Utah. The 3-mile round-trip hike to Delicate Arch is moderately challenging, but the incredible view at the end is worth every step.
Landscape Arch: As one of the longest natural stone arches in the world, Landscape Arch stretches an impressive 290 feet. Located in the Devils Garden area, the easy 1.6-mile trail to Landscape Arch offers a fantastic opportunity to witness one of nature’s engineering marvels.
Double Arch: For a short, easy hike with a big reward, head to Double Arch. This formation consists of two massive arches that share a common end, creating an impressive sight. The short 0.5-mile trail is perfect for families and offers a great spot for photos.
Balanced Rock: One of the most accessible and popular formations, Balanced Rock is an astonishing 128-foot tall rock that appears to be delicately balancing on a smaller base. You can walk a short loop around it for different perspectives, or simply gaze up in awe at its gravity-defying beauty.
Best Hiking Trails in Arches National Park
Devils Garden Trail: This is one of the park’s most popular and rewarding hikes. Stretching about 7.2 miles round-trip, the Devils Garden Trail leads you through some of the park’s most famous formations, including Landscape Arch, Navajo Arch, and Partition Arch. For those seeking a longer adventure, you can continue on to the Double O Arch, which requires some scrambling but offers magnificent views.
The Windows Section: This area is home to some of the park’s largest arches, including the North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. The short, easy 1-mile loop trail offers an excellent opportunity to explore these massive formations up close, and the views at sunrise or sunset are unforgettable.
Park Avenue Trail: If you’re looking for an easy yet scenic hike, the Park Avenue Trail is perfect. This 2-mile round-trip trail takes you through a canyon surrounded by towering rock walls and impressive spires, reminiscent of a city skyline—hence the name "Park Avenue."
Accommodation and Dining
Camping at Arches: The park offers a 50-site campground at Devils Garden, which is available year-round. The campground provides picnic tables, grills, and restrooms, making it a great option for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.
Staying in Moab: For those looking for more comfort, the nearby town of Moab offers a variety of accommodation options. Popular places to stay include Sorrel River Ranch for a luxury experience, or more budget-friendly options like Moab Valley Inn.
Dining: While there are no restaurants within Arches National Park itself, Moab has a variety of dining options. You can grab a hearty breakfast at Moab Diner before heading into the park, or enjoy a relaxing meal at The Desert Bistro after a day of hiking.
Arches National Park is a place where nature’s artistry is on full display. No matter you’re hiking to see world-famous arches, photographing the unique landscapes, or simply enjoying the serenity of the red-rock desert, Arches offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for every visitor.
