When envisioning National Parks, several prominently stand out, such as Yellowstone, Sequoia, and Arches. Each of these iconic parks possesses unique features; Yellowstone boasts Ol’ Faithful, Sequoia is home to its remarkable giant sequoias, and Arches showcases the famous Delicate Arch.
While it is impossible to encapsulate all the wonders these parks offer, highlighting their most recognized aspects serves as an introduction.
For those planning a road trip through the National Parks in Utah or identifying the best places to visit in Utah , Arches should undoubtedly be included on your itinerary. With its iconic Delicate Arch frequently featured in social media photos, the park also encompasses breathtaking natural wonders not found elsewhere.
Park History
Designated as a National Park in 1971, Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 sandstone arches to explore. The park rests on an underground salt bed known as the “Paradox Formation.”
The subterranean salt layer became destabilized over the years due to natural pressure, causing it to shift under the weight of the sandstone, resulting in the formation of breathtaking arches, including the sweeping Landscape Arch, which spans an impressive 306 feet.
General Park Information
Park Entrance
Located 5 miles north of Moab.
Hours of Operation
The park is accessible 24 hours a day; however, building hours may vary.
Visitor center: 9 am – 4 pm
Shuttle Services
Currently, there are no shuttle services available.
Park Accessibility
For individuals with physical or mobility challenges, as well as those who are deaf or blind/low vision, various accommodations are provided. Comprehensive details can be found through the National Park Service .
Overall, multiple accessible areas exist within the park, accompanied by ranger-guided programs. Additionally, campgrounds feature various wheelchair-accessible sites.
Best Time to Visit
Like other national parks in Utah, visiting during late fall results in substantially reduced crowds, particularly around October when many trails can be enjoyed in solitude, especially the more challenging routes. Conversely, if you prefer a summer visit, aim for early morning to avoid the high temperatures.
Before embarking into any slots or fins, verify weather conditions as flash floods can occur suddenly and pose significant risks.
Entrance Fee
Private vehicle: $30
Walk-in visitor (per person): $15
For those planning extensive visits across multiple parks, consider acquiring the America the Beautiful pass , which becomes cost-effective at $80 if you intend to explore all five National Parks in Utah along with others across the nation.
Arches National Park has recently implemented a timed entry fee during the summer months from April 1 to October 31; no timed entry fee is required in winter. Timed entry tickets can be acquired through recreation.gov .
Getting There
Traveling to Arches necessitates a car, as public transportation options are limited. The nearest airport is approximately 110 miles southwest of Grand Junction, Colorado, considered the best entry point unless visits to other parks are included in your itinerary. For exclusive visits to Arches, Salt Lake City and Colorado Junction are optimal, with Colorado Junction offering the closest access.
Accommodation Options
Hotels
With Moab located just 5 miles away, the town serves as an ideal “home base,” whether camping or not. However, it’s essential to reserve accommodations well in advance, especially in popular tourist seasons, as indicated in my Ultimate Guide to Canyonlands National Park.
Camping
Arches National Park features one campground, Devils Garden Campground, conveniently located for hiking the must-see Devils Garden trail. Reservations are advisable during peak seasons as sites tend to fill quickly; during the off-peak months (November through February), accommodations operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
This campground offers 51 sites at a rate of $25 per night for standard sites.
Culinary Suggestions
For recommendations on dining options in Moab, please refer to my Canyonlands National Park guide.
Top Hikes in Arches National Park
Easy to Moderate Hikes
Delicate Arch
Delicate Arch attracts countless visitors and undoubtedly ranks among the top attractions within the park, justified by its stunning beauty. A brief 0.5-mile round trip leads to a breathtaking amphitheater showcasing this arch as the centerpiece. To avoid extreme heat and sizable crowds, consider visiting either early or during the off-peak season.
Notably, the Wolfe Ranch, a historic structure, remains along the path towards Delicate Arch, enriching the trek’s cultural value.
The Windows
The Windows hike is a delightful 1-mile trail featuring North Window, South Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch, situated across the parking area.
Landscape Arch
The impressive Landscape Arch, extending 306 feet, is easily a favorite. This 2-mile round-trip hike is essential as ongoing geological shifts may threaten its presence in the future.
Difficult Longer Hikes
Devils Garden Loop
This remarkable hike is one of the park’s best, spanning 7.2 miles round-trip. Prepare to carry ample water and plan for frequent stops to capture impressive photographs of the grand fins. As you traverse the main trail, you will encounter eight notable arches, including Broken Arch and Dark Angel, a striking rock pinnacle.
For a unique experience, take the primitive trail on your return trip, allowing you to explore Fin Canyon. Should you opt for a hike during your visit and possess moderate hiking experience, be sure to include this route in your plans.
Concluding Thoughts
Arches National Park extends far beyond just Delicate Arch; it serves as an exceptional destination that invites exploration. While Delicate Arch is a significant attraction, the park boasts more than 2,000 arches, presenting visitors with countless opportunities to witness the majestic splendor of nature repeatedly.
