Arches National Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Arches National Park with this thorough travel guide that includes information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink options, where to stay, when to visit, and much more.


Introduction to Arches National Park

Arches National Park is a unique and breathtaking destination located in the southwest region of the United States, specifically in canyon country in Utah. This national park covers an area of over 76,000 acres and is renowned for its stunning sandstone formations, including over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. Visitors can explore the park’s natural wonders, participate in outdoor activities, and learn about the region’s cultural and historical significance.

List of Places to Visit in Arches National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Arches National Park is home to a rich cultural history spanning over thousands of years. Visitors can explore and learn more about the park’s cultural significance at the following museums and historical sites:

  • Museum of Moab: This museum showcases the cultural and natural history of Moab and the surrounding area. It features exhibits on geology, paleontology, archaeology, and cultural interpretation.

  • Arches Visitor Center: This is the primary source of information for visitors to the park. Here, visitors can learn about the park’s history, geology, and natural resources.

Natural Attractions of Arches National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural beauty of Arches National Park is the primary reason visitors come to the area. From scenic drives to hiking and biking, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the park. Here are just a few of the top outdoor attractions to add to your itinerary:

  • Balanced Rock: This iconic rock formation stands at 128 feet tall and is a picturesque spot for photos.

  • Delicate Arch Trail: This trail takes visitors to the most recognizable natural arch in the park. The trail is 3 miles round trip and is a moderate-level hike.

  • Fiery Furnace: This area in the park is a maze of narrow canyons and towering walls that provides an exciting off-trail hiking experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arches National Park

Arches National Park is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with over 50 miles of trails to explore. Visitors can enjoy a range of hikes, from easy strolls to strenuous treks, that take you through the park’s stunning landscape. Here are a few of the most popular hiking and biking routes in the park:

  • Devil’s Garden Trail: This 7.2-mile trail is one of the most popular trails in the park and offers stunning views of arches and landscapes.

  • Delicate Arch Trail: This 3-mile trail leads to the most famous arch in the park. It is a moderate-level hike that offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Arches National Park: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours to enjoy in Arches National Park. Here are just a few recommendations:

  • Ranger-led activities: Visitors can take part in ranger-led hikes, talks, and campfire programs to learn more about the park.

  • Stargazing: Arches National Park is a designated “Dark Sky Park” and offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.

  • Scenic Drives: There are many scenic drives in the park, including the Arches Scenic Drive, which offers breathtaking views of the park’s arches and landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arches National Park

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Arches National Park:

  • Day 1: Explore the park’s cultural and natural resources, including the Museum of Moab and the Arches Visitor Center.

  • Day 2: Discover some of the park’s iconic sandstone formations, such as Balanced Rock and Delicate Arch.

  • Day 3-4: Take on some of the park’s hiking/biking trails, such as the Devil’s Garden Trail and the Delicate Arch Trail.

  • Day 5-6: Participate in ranger-led activities, go stargazing, and enjoy the park’s scenic drives.

  • Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Canyonlands National Park or Moab.

Food and Drink Scene of Arches National Park

Must-Try Dishes

While there are no restaurants within the park, there are plenty of options in the nearby town of Moab. Here are a few local favorites:

  • Quesadillas: A popular dish that combines cheese, salsa, and vegetables.

  • Steak Burrito: A burrito that features tender steak and fresh vegetables wrapped in a warm tortilla.

  • Green Chile Stew: A hearty stew made with tender pork and spicy green chiles.

Local Beverages

When it comes to local beverages, visitors should try the craft beer and local wine. The nearby town of Moab offers many breweries and wineries to check out.

Where to Stay in Arches National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for lodging near Arches National Park, ranging from hotels to campgrounds. Here are some of the top options:

  • Moab Lodging: Moab offers many hotels and resorts for visitors to choose from.

  • Campgrounds and RV Parks: The park has several campgrounds to choose from, including Devils Garden Campground and Arches National Park Campground.

What to Buy in Arches National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can bring a piece of Arches National Park home with them by purchasing souvenirs like postcards, t-shirts, and other memorabilia from the park’s gift shop.

Local Culture and Customs of Arches National Park

Visitors should be mindful of the natural resources of the park and follow the “leave no trace” principles. Respect the natural resources and observe park rules and regulations to help preserve the park for future generations.

Best Time to Visit Arches National Park

The best time to visit Arches National Park is during the spring and fall months when temperatures are moderate, and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arches National Park

Do:

  • Plan ahead for your trip, including accommodations, activities, and dining options.

  • Respect wildlife and natural resources.

  • Follow park guidelines and regulations.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or other objects behind.

  • Damage natural resources.

  • Use drones or other aircraft in the park.

Safety and Health

Safety in Arches National Park

Visitors should be aware of the potential hazards of the park, which include hot temperatures, sudden weather changes, and rugged terrain. It’s essential to bring plenty of water and wear appropriate clothing and footwear.

Health in Arches National Park

The park has no hospitals or medical facilities onsite. Visitors should bring sufficient supplies of any necessary medications and be prepared for emergencies.

Getting to Arches National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Arches National Park

The nearest airport to Arches National Park is the Canyonlands Field Airport, located in Moab.

Bus Stations Near Arches National Park

Greyhound services the nearby town of Moab.

Other Options

Visitors may choose to rent a car or use a rideshare service to get to and from Arches National Park.

How to Get Around in Arches National Park

Visitors can drive or bike on designated routes throughout the park. There are also several hiking trails to explore.

Where to Go Next from Arches National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many other parks and attractions to explore in the surrounding area, including Canyonlands National Park, Dead Horse Point State Park, and the Colorado River.

Conclusion

Arches National Park is a stunning and unique destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of canyon country, Utah. With plenty of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and nearby destinations to explore, visitors are sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Arches National Park.

Delicate Arch Delicate Arch A lizard basks on a rock in the Devil's Garden. A lizard basks on a rock in the Devil's Garden. Taking centuries to form, black, crusty cryptobiotic soil enriches the earth and allows other desert plants to take root. Taking centuries to form, black, crusty cryptobiotic soil enriches the earth and allows other desert plants to take root. The secluded grotto of Navajo Arch in the Devil's Garden. The secluded grotto of Navajo Arch in the Devil's Garden. Balanced Rock in the Windows District. Balanced Rock in the Windows District. Double Arch in the Windows District. Double Arch in the Windows District. Ravens squabble over a hiker's dropped sandwich, Devil's Garden Trail. Ravens squabble over a hiker's dropped sandwich, Devil's Garden Trail. The Three Gossips and Sheep Rock near Courthouse Wash. The Three Gossips and Sheep Rock near Courthouse Wash.