Visit Arches National Park

Arches National Park: Moab’s Red Rock Wonderland

If you’re planning to visit Arches National Park during your Moab adventure, you’re about to experience one of the most spectacular landscapes in the American Southwest. Towering sandstone formations, natural stone arches glowing orange in the desert light, and endless views of mesas and distant mountains all come together in a place that feels otherworldly. This guide covers everything you need to know, from the best time to visit and what to pack, to trail highlights and local tips that help you make the most of your trip.

Where Arches National Park Is Located

Arches National Park sits just north of Moab, Utah, and is one of the most accessible national parks in the country. The park entrance is about five miles from downtown Moab along U.S. 191, making it easy to visit even if you’re staying in town. The park spans more than 76,000 acres and contains over 2,000 natural sandstone arches—the highest concentration of natural arches anywhere in the world.

The park’s dramatic scenery is carved from red Entrada Sandstone, shaped by wind, water, and time into fins, towers, and arches. It’s bordered by the Colorado River to the south and framed by the La Sal Mountains to the east, giving visitors both desert and alpine views within a single panorama.

Key Takeaways

• Arches is located five miles north of Moab.

• It covers more than 76,000 acres of high desert.

• The park contains over 2,000 natural sandstone arches.

When to Go

Arches National Park is open year-round, but your experience will depend heavily on the season.

Spring (March to May): Comfortable temperatures, blooming desert plants, and dramatic skies make this one of the best times to visit. Expect some crowds as this is the start of the busy season.

Summer (June to August): Hot and dry. Temperatures often rise above 100 °F. If you visit in summer, plan hikes early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is lower and the light is better for photography.

Fall (September to October): Another ideal window. The weather cools off, and the crowds thin slightly after Labor Day. The light becomes softer, perfect for capturing the park’s colors.

Winter (November to February): Cold but quiet. Light snow sometimes dusts the red rock, creating beautiful contrast. You’ll have trails mostly to yourself, but bring warm layers and check conditions before hiking.

In recent years, Arches has used a timed-entry system during busy months to help manage crowding. If your trip falls between spring and fall, reserve your time slot in advance.

Key Takeaways

• Best seasons are spring and fall for comfort and beauty.

• Summer requires heat precautions.

• Winter offers solitude and a chance to see snow on red rock.

• Reserve timed entry if visiting during peak months.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Arches may be easy to reach, but it’s still a desert environment. Preparation is key.

Essentials to Bring

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day. There is very little shade and few water sources inside the park.

• Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must.

• Sturdy Footwear: Good hiking shoes or boots for walking on slickrock and uneven surfaces.

• Layered Clothing: Temperatures can swing dramatically between morning and evening.

• Snacks or Lunch: There are no restaurants or stores inside the park.

• Navigation Tools: Cell service is limited. Download a map or use a GPS device.

• Patience and Awareness: Stay on marked trails to protect delicate desert soil and avoid getting lost.

If you’re traveling with kids, choose short hikes such as Balanced Rock or The Windows Loop. Start early to beat the crowds and the heat.

Key Takeaways

• Carry more water than you think you’ll need.

• Protect yourself from the sun.

• Bring your own food and maps.

• Always stay on designated trails.

Route Highlights and Suggested Stops

Arches is a park that rewards both quick visits and long explorations. The main road through the park is about 18 miles one way, with numerous pullouts and trailheads along the route.

Recommended Stops

• Visitor Center – Start here for maps, restrooms, and current information about trails and conditions.

• Park Avenue – A short hike through towering rock walls that resemble a canyon of skyscrapers.

• Balanced Rock – A quick, easy loop around one of the park’s most famous formations.

• The Windows Section – A family-friendly area featuring the North and South Windows and Double Arch. These are especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.

• Delicate Arch – The crown jewel of the park and the image on Utah’s license plates. The hike is three miles round trip with some elevation gain. Bring water and take your time.

• Devils Garden Trail – For more adventurous visitors, this area features Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural spans in the world. The full loop is about seven miles but you can turn around at any point.

Suggested Itineraries

• Half-Day Visit: Start early, explore the Windows Section, and finish with Delicate Arch before returning to Moab.

• Full-Day Visit: Add Devils Garden, a picnic lunch, and several scenic viewpoints along the main drive.

Key Takeaways

• Arches can be enjoyed in a few hours or explored in depth over a full day.

• Delicate Arch and The Windows are must-see landmarks.

• Start early or stay late for the best light and fewer crowds.

What to Expect

Arches is breathtaking but it’s also a harsh environment. Plan accordingly.

• Crowds: Expect heavy visitation between March and October, especially mid-morning through mid-afternoon. Early morning entries are more peaceful.

• Heat: There is almost no shade. Even short hikes can feel strenuous. Always have water.

• Photography: The park’s red rocks glow at sunrise and sunset. Bring a camera or phone ready for low-angle light.

• Wildlife: Lizards, desert birds, and the occasional jackrabbit are common.

• Accessibility: Many viewpoints are accessible by car or short walk, so even if you don’t hike, you can still enjoy the park’s beauty.

• Nearby Amenities: The town of Moab provides restaurants, hotels, and outfitters for rafting, canyoneering, and mountain biking.

Local Tip: Bundle your Arches visit with a guided adventure in the surrounding area. You can hike canyons, raft the Colorado River, or take a 4×4 tour for a full Moab experience. Many local outfitters offer discounts for multi-activity bookings.

Key Takeaways

• Expect heat and crowds in peak season.

• Moab provides all your lodging, dining, and gear needs.

• Combine your park visit with other nearby adventures.

Your Next Step: Make It a Moab Adventure

A visit to Arches National Park is more than a sightseeing stop—it’s an immersion in one of the most striking landscapes on Earth. Whether you spend a few hours or a few days, the red rock, the silence, and the starlit nights will stay with you long after you leave.

To complete your trip, stay in Moab and explore beyond the park. Go rafting on the Colorado River, join a guided canyoneering trip, or hike in Canyonlands National Park just a short drive away. You can plan it all through Moabing’s local adventure partners and take advantage of bundled discounts for guided experiences.

Your journey into Utah’s red rock country starts here. Pack your bag, charge your camera, and get ready to explore Arches National Park—the heart of the Moab experience.