Arches National Park

Why Visit Arches National Park

Arches National Park is the world’s most concentrated landscape of natural sandstone arches. Within a compact area just outside Moab, Arches National Park blends short, rewarding hikes, easy roadside viewpoints, and spectacular sunrise and sunset light that turns red rock into glowing sculpture. For first‑time visitors, Arches National Park is a perfect introduction to the Southwest; for photographers and hikers, Arches National Park is a repeat‑worthy playground of fins, spires, and windows that never feel the same twice.

Arches National Park is also easy to plan. The paved Scenic Drive strings together classic stops where you can capture big views without committing to long mileage, while trailheads for Delicate Arch and Devils Garden offer iconic half‑day adventures. Add in Moab’s lodging and dining, and Arches National Park becomes a low‑stress, high‑impact destination you can do in one to two days—or savor at a slower pace across several sunsets.

Best Time to Visit Arches National Park

The best overall months to visit Arches National Park are April–May and September–October, when daytime temperatures are comfortable and air clarity is excellent. Spring in Arches National Park brings wildflowers and crisp light; fall brings stable weather and fewer storms. Summer is beautiful but hot—plan pre‑dawn starts, long midday breaks, and sunset hikes. Winter in Arches National Park is the quietest season: occasional snow dustings add texture to slickrock, though you’ll need traction and layers.

• Spring (Mar–May): Cool mornings, mild afternoons, and dramatic skies. Reach Delicate Arch 60–90 minutes before sunset for the best color.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): Heat is the main challenge in Arches National Park. Start before sunrise, carry 3L of water per person, and target shady windows like Double Arch at midday.
• Fall (Sep–Oct): The prime hiking window in Arches National Park—clear air, great visibility, and golden hour that flatters Landscape Arch and the Windows.
• Winter (Nov–Feb): Minimal crowds and stunning contrasts. Watch for ice on steps and sloped slickrock.

Explore seasonal packing and crowd strategies in the related topic: /national-parks/arches-national-park/best-time-to-visit/

Top Things To Do in Arches National Park

Delicate Arch

The signature hike of Arches National Park. This 3‑mile round‑trip climbs steadily to a natural amphitheater framing Delicate Arch—at its best in the hour before sunset. Bring a headlamp for the return and allow extra time to enjoy the changing light.

Windows Section and Double Arch

A short loop links North and South Windows, Turret Arch, and a quick stroll to Double Arch. These are the most family‑friendly walks in Arches National Park and still deliver that towering‑arch drama.

Devils Garden: Landscape Arch and Beyond

Landscape Arch—one of the world’s longest natural spans—is a must‑see. Confident hikers in Arches National Park can continue the primitive loop to Double O Arch, where route‑finding and traction become part of the fun. Start early and watch the forecast.

Balanced Rock and Roadside Viewpoints

Balanced Rock, Panorama Point, and assorted pullouts keep Arches National Park accessible even when you’re short on time. Great for tripod work at blue hour.

Stargazing

Arches National Park is an International Dark Sky Park. With wide horizons and sculptural foregrounds, night photography around the Windows and Balanced Rock is particularly rewarding.

2‑Day Itinerary for Arches National Park

• Day 1: Sunrise at the Windows → short stops along the Scenic Drive → long break in Moab → late‑afternoon hike to Delicate Arch for sunset. Arches National Park shines when you stack a soft sunrise with a blazing golden hour.
• Day 2: Pre‑dawn start for Devils Garden → Landscape Arch first, extend toward Double O if conditions are right → Sand Dune Arch and Skyline Arch as easy add‑ons → optional evening stargazing pullout.

For a step‑by‑step plan with timing, parking, and photo notes, see: /national-parks/arches-national-park/itinerary-2-days/

Practical Guide: Getting There, Fees, Permits

• Getting There: Fly into Salt Lake City (SLC) or Grand Junction (GJT) and drive to Moab. The entrance to Arches National Park is 10–15 minutes from town.
• Fees: Private vehicle $30 (7 days). America the Beautiful pass is accepted.
• Reservations: During peak periods, Arches National Park may require timed entry; Fiery Furnace requires a reserved tour or permit. Always confirm on the NPS site.
• Supplies: Water fills are limited—carry what you need. In summer, Arches National Park demands sun protection, electrolytes, and realistic time plans.

Where to Stay near Arches National Park

Base yourself in Moab for easy pre‑dawn starts and late returns. Lodging ranges from hotels to vacation rentals. Devils Garden Campground is the signature in‑park option (book early). BLM lands outside Arches National Park have dispersed camping—follow local regulations and Leave No Trace.

Safety & Leave No Trace

Trails in Arches National Park often traverse slickrock and soft sand. Wear shoes with reliable grip, protect yourself from sun and heat, and carry a headlamp for any sunset hikes. Stay off cryptobiotic soil, don’t build rock piles, and keep a safe distance from cliff edges and arch openings.

Accessibility

Many viewpoints and short paths in Arches National Park are partially paved or hard‑packed. Check the NPS Accessibility page for gradients and facility details. If mobility is limited, a Scenic Drive + Windows/Double Arch plan still delivers the essence of Arches National Park.

Features of Arches National Park

• Highest density of natural sandstone arches on Earth
• Rewarding short hikes and photogenic roadside stops
• Grand desert light at sunrise and sunset
• International Dark Sky Park stargazing
• Easy pairing with Canyonlands and Dead Horse Point

FAQs about Arches National Park

Do I need a reservation to enter?

During high season, Arches National Park may use timed entry. Fiery Furnace requires a guided tour or individual permit. Always verify current rules.

When is Delicate Arch best?

Delicate Arch is most dramatic before sunset. Start 2–3 hours in advance to manage parking, climb in cooler temps, and secure a viewpoint.

How much water should I carry?

In summer at Arches National Park, plan on a minimum of 3 liters per person for half‑day hikes, plus electrolytes and sun protection.

Where should I stay?

Moab provides the most convenient base for Arches National Park, with broad lodging and food options. In‑park camping books out months ahead.

Can I see the highlights in one day?

Yes. Arches National Park compresses well: Windows and Double Arch at sunrise, Scenic Drive viewpoints midday, and Delicate Arch at sunset. Two days are better if you want Devils Garden and stargazing. Arches National Park rewards unrushed planning and well‑timed light. Start at dawn for quieter overlooks, schedule a mid‑day reset, and finish with a golden‑hour hike. Set conservative turn‑around times, carry ample water and sun protection, and use shuttle or pullouts to reduce parking stress. With a realistic pace and flexible weather plans, you’ll see Arches National Park at its best without feeling rushed.