Arches National Park is a captivating testament to the power of geological forces and the beauty of natural erosion. Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, towering pinnacles, and stunning rock formations, the park boasts an otherworldly landscape that draws visitors from around the globe. Its iconic landmarks, such as Delicate Arch, Balanced Rock, and Landscape Arch, stand as symbols of the park’s grandeur. Beyond its remarkable geological features, Arches National Park is also rich in cultural history, with evidence of ancient civilizations, including petroglyphs and rock art. Hiking trails wind through the rugged terrain, offering the chance to explore this desert wilderness firsthand. A visit to Arches National Park promises an unforgettable experience immersed in the wonders of nature.
Fun Facts about Arches National Park
- The park was established as a national monument on April 12, 1929, by President Herbert Hoover. It was later redesignated as a national park on November 12, 1971, by Congress.
- Arches National Park is constantly changing due to erosion and weathering. Every year, some arches collapse while new ones are formed, making each visit unique.
- Arches National Park contains the highest density of natural stone arches in the world, with over 2,000 documented arches spread across its 76,679 acres.
- Delicate Arch, the park’s most famous landmark, stands 52 feet tall and 32 feet wide. It’s a symbol of Utah and even appears on the state’s license plates.
- The park is home to over 6,000 archaeological sites, including petroglyphs, pictographs, and other remnants of ancient civilizations.
- Arches has served as a backdrop for numerous films and commercials due to its stunning scenery. Movies like “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade” and “Thelma & Louise” feature scenes shot in the park.
- Despite its harsh environment, Arches is home to a variety of wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, kangaroo rats, and many species of birds and reptiles.
- Arches National Park holds the record for the highest temperature ever recorded in Utah, with a scorching 109 degrees Fahrenheit in July 2005.
A Quick Look at Arches National Park
- Best time of year to visit. The best times to visit this park are April through May and September through October. This is when the temperatures are cooler.
- How long to stay. Most of the trails are on the shorter side, so three days should give you plenty of time to experience much of what the park has to offer.
- How to get there. The closest airport is Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY), and the nearest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). The entrance is just north of the town of Moab.
- Places to stay. There are not any lodges inside the park, but there are some in the nearby town of Moab. However, you can stay at Devil’s Garden Campground inside the park.
Things to Know Before Hiking in Arches National Park
- Arches National Park is in bear country. This park is known to have bears come down from the mountains and wander around. Carrying bear spray is highly recommended when hiking or staying in any areas that are homes to potentially dangerous wildlife. Bear spray is a specialized type of pepper spray that is proven to be effective in deterring aggressive wildlife in the event of close encounters.
- Cell phone reception is limited in most of the park. Before you head to the park, I highly recommend that you download and have offline copies of any reservation details, directions, or permits.
- Have offline access to hiking trails maps Make sure you have downloaded versions of any trail that you plan on hiking. If you don’t have a fancy GPS with tracking and messaging, you should download the AllTrails app and upgrade to AllTrails+ for $35.99 a year. This upgrade lets you download topographical, satellite, and other varieties of offline trails, shows you where you are, how far you have gone, and how much longer you must go, as well as your elevation gain, speed, and estimated burned calories. I use it for every non-overnight hike that I do.
- Pack essential items and proper clothing. Some very basic, but essential items that should always be carried while hiking include a navigation system, a flashlight or headlamp, sun protection, a first aid kit, insect repellent, a knife, matches, a lighter, or a fire started, extra food and water beyond the minimum expectation, and extra clothes such as a rain jacket, wind breaker, and warmer layers. Some of these items may feel unnecessary at first glance but it is better to have something and not need it, than to need it and not have it.
- Arches National Park charges an entry fee. These fees usually cost $35 and grant you a week of additional access to over 425 sites that are also run by the National Park Service. If you plan on visiting three or more parks within a year, then I recommend you purchase the America the Beautiful annual pass. This pass will make entering parks a bit quicker, much easier, and provides you with access to the same number of parks that the week-long pass does, but for an entire year.
Fifteen Epic Hikes in Arches National Park
1. Skyline Arch Trail
- Length: 0.4 Miles
- Elevation gain: 35 feet
Skyline Arch Trail offers a captivating journey through iconic sandstone formations, leading you on a scenic adventure through the stunning natural beauty of Utah’s desert landscape. This moderate trail provides an opportunity to marvel at the grandeur of Skyline Arch, an impressive geological wonder carved by the forces of wind.
2. Balanced Rock Loop
- Length: 0.3 Miles
- Elevation gain: 55 feet
The Balanced Rock Loop showcases the mesmerizing beauty of one of the park’s most famous formations. This short but captivating trail leads you around the towering Balanced Rock, a stunning geological feature that appears delicately balanced on top of its narrow pedestal, serving as an enduring symbol of the park’s remarkable natural wonders.
3. Double Arch Trail
- Length: 0.6 Miles
- Elevation gain: 95 feet
The Double Arch Trail is another mesmerizing journey through a surreal landscape of towering sandstone formations. This easy, family-friendly trail leads you to the breathtaking Double Arch, where two immense arches span the desert floor, creating a captivating sight that showcases the raw beauty and geological marvels of the park.
4. The Windows Viewpoint and Trail
- Length: 1 Mile
- Elevation gain: 99 feet
- The Windows Viewpoint and Trail provides a captivating experience in some of the park’s most iconic natural wonders. This short, accessible trail leads you to The Windows, a striking formation featuring two massive arches side by side, framing the vast desert landscape beyond. From the viewpoint, you can witness the impressive geological formations and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding red rock scenery.
5. Broken Arch Trail
- Length: 1.7 Miles
- Elevation gain: 167 feet
The trail to Broken Arch offers a serene and scenic hike through a diverse desert landscape. This trail winds its way through sandy washes and beneath towering sandstone cliffs, leading you to this majestic arch. With its massive span partially collapsed, Broken Arch provides a fascinating glimpse into the ever-changing nature of geological formations within the park.
6. Landscape Arch Trail
- Length: 1.9 Miles
- Elevation gain: 252 feet
Landscape Arch Trail calls you to explore one of the longest natural stone arches in the world. This well-maintained trail meanders through a picturesque desert setting, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of Landscape Arch stretching over 290 feet. Witnessing the span of this iconic arch serves as a testament to the remarkable forces of nature that have shaped the rugged beauty of the park.
7. Park Avenue Trail
- Length: 1.8 Miles
- Elevation gain: 298 feet
Park Avenue Trail immerses you in a canyon-like setting with towering sandstone monoliths resembling skyscrapers. This scenic trail offers a captivating journey through a landscape with sheer rock walls rising into the air. As you wander through this geological marvel, you are treated to breathtaking views and a profound sense of awe at the natural wonders sculpted by time and erosion.
8. Fiery Furnace Loop
- Length: 1.9 Miles
- Elevation gain: 289 feet
The Fiery Furnace Loop presents you with a thrilling exploration of a labyrinthine maze of sandstone arches and narrow passages. This ranger-guided hike offers an immersive experience into one of the park’s most intricate and awe-inspiring geological formations. With its fiery hues, the Fiery Furnace enchants you with its otherworldly beauty and tests your skills in navigating the rugged terrain.
9. Partition Arch Trail
- Length: 2.8 Miles
- Elevation gain: 469 feet
The trail to Partition Arch invites you to discover a hidden gem nestled within the park’s captivating landscape. This trail leads you through a scenic desert environment, culminating in the mesmerizing sight of Partition Arch. With its unique partitioned structure, this natural wonder offers a serene and picturesque setting for you to admire amidst breathtaking red rock scenery.
10. Navajo Arch Trail
- Length: 2.9 Miles
- Elevation gain: 492 feet
This trail leads you on a rewarding journey through the desert terrain to the enchanting Navajo Arch. As you traverse this trail, you are treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding sandstone formations and lush vegetation. The graceful curve of Navajo Arch provides a peaceful and secluded spot for you to pause and appreciate the timeless beauty of nature.
11. Tower Arch Trail
- Length: 2.4 Miles
- Elevation gain: 600 feet
The Tower Arch Trail is a serene and less-traveled path through the park’s mesmerizing landscape. As you venture along this trail, you are rewarded with the striking sight of Tower Arch, standing proudly amidst the sandstone cliffs. This arch’s impressive size and intricate formations make it a captivating destination for solitude and a deeper connection with the ancient wonders of the desert.
12. Delicate Arch Trail
- Length: 3.2 Miles
- Elevation gain: 629 feet
The Delicate Arch Trail is an iconic and must-visit destination for adventurers seeking one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in the world. This hike winds through stunning red rock scenery, culminating in the breathtaking sight of Delicate Arch, standing boldly against the backdrop of the expansive desert landscape. As you stand beneath its span, you are filled with a sense of awe and wonder at nature’s remarkable artistry and the enduring symbol of the American Southwest. This was definitely one of my all time favorite hikes.
13. Eye of the Whale Trail
- Length: 5.1 Miles
- Elevation gain: 410 feet
The Eye of the Whale Arch is a captivating natural wonder tucked away in a remote corner of the park. This unique sandstone formation resembles the shape of a whale’s eye, with a striking circular opening framed by sculpted rock. While it’s not as well-known as some of the park’s other arches, the trail to the Eye of the Whale arch offers a rewarding adventure for those willing to explore off the beaten path and discover the park’s hidden gems.
14. Private Arch Trail
- Length: 5.3 Miles
- Elevation gain: 846 feet
Private Arch is a hidden gem within the park, tucked away in a remote area accessible through off-trail hiking. This arch showcases the park’s lesser-known intricate geological formations, offering a sense of solitude and discovery to those who venture off the beaten path to find it. While its name may suggest exclusivity, Private Arch welcomes adventurous explorers seeking to uncover the park’s hidden treasures.
15. Courthouse Wash
- Length: 10.8 Miles
- Elevation gain: 492 feet
The trail to Courthouse Wash is a picturesque canyon located in the southern section of the park. This serene hike follows the sandy bottom of the wash, flanked by towering sandstone walls adorned with ancient petroglyphs, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region. The tranquil ambiance and fascinating geological features make Courthouse Wash a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and immersive experience in the park.