Arches National Park, maintained by the National Park Service, is one of Utah's top attractions. More than 1 million visitors come each year to explore its sandstone fins and Windows Section rock formations, admire views overlooking the Colorado River, or stay at the Devils Garden Campground (the only campground in the park). Whether travelers want to stroll through the desert landscape on a day trip or venture into the backcountry on a multi-day excursion, methods for exploring the park are as varied as the sandstone arches within.
Travelers can learn to mountain bike amid the spectacular rock formations, take a 4-wheel tour of the park's top points of interest, or experience the park as part of a multi-day guided journey through Utah's most popular national parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands National Park.
Arches National Park is a must-see attraction for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
In addition to Arches National Park tickets, you should book timed entry reservations months in advance to enter the park.
Don't forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water. Shade is rare in the park's desert environment.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
The Arches Visitor Center offers free Wi-Fi.
Several trails, picnic grounds, and viewpoints are wheelchair accessible, as is the Arches Visitor Center.
Arches National Park is 5 miles (8 kilometers) north of Moab, Utah on US 191. Most visitors arrive by car or as part of a guided tour from Moab or Salt Lake City. The nearest major airport is Grand Junction Regional Airport, roughly 90 minutes by road from the park.
Arches is busiest from April through October; during this time, plan to arrive in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid traffic. (Book your Arches National Park timed entry tickets far in advance). Summer temperatures regularly break 100°F (38°C), while spring and fall weather can be more comfortable. There are no ranger-led programs offered in winter, but the lack of crowds makes this a peaceful time to visit.
As one of Utah’s most accessible national parks, Arches offers a wide variety of hiking trails, many of which are rated as easy or moderate. Popular easy hikes take visitors to Landscape Arch or Balanced Rock, while the most popular park trail—a strenuous 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) trek—leads to the iconic Delicate Arch.