Camping in Arches. Follow @archesnps on Twitter and Facebook and visit nps.gov/arch for park alerts about current conditions and to view the entrance station webcam. Spend your Utah destinations vacation at The Mighty 5 our iconic national parks and at the equally majestic national monuments and state parks in between. This four-mile, two-to-three hour loop descends from the rim of Klauea Iki crater, through the lush rainforest . The arches here are made from sandstone Entrada Sandstone in particular. It was first protected as Arches National Monument in 1929 and expanded several times before attaining national park status. This number changes as new arches are discovered and others collapse. Reservations will be released three . You may purchase a 7-day pass valid only at Arches or an . Several of thembelieve the namesake arches that entice more than 1.5 million people to visit the park annually are portals in space and time that play an important role in tribal religious practices. The rock spires are sentient beings who continue to provide help to people. The La Sal Mountains were described as a dwelling place for spirits and sacred beings, so visitors should visit with respect. Since 2010, more than 1 million visitors have visited the park each year. The opening below the arch is 46 feet high, making this the largest free-standing arch in Arches National Park. Before hitting the trails, make sure you have a day pack ready with more than enough water and the necessary sun protection, food, and capable footwear. Check the current regulations and suggested guidelines for the places you intend to visit. Facilities include grills, picnic tables, drinking water, and both pit and flush toilets. Rooms come equipped with a kitchenette. If you don't have the time or ability to hike during your visit to Arches National Park, don't worry! Please practice fire safety and review locations of active wildfires in Utah. Timed entry tickets are required from April 1 - October 31, 2023 to enter Arches National Park between 7 AM and 4 PM daily. The park is very busy from March through October, especially on holidays, weekends and mid-morning. If you want to stay inside of Arches National Park, the only place to do so is at Devils Garden Campground. You can download a variety of publications, including the park newspaper, or look up Arches on the new NPS app. To get here, it is an easy 1.6 mile hike. Arches National Park is a national park in eastern Utah, United States. One full day will give you enough time to visit the highlights of Arches National Park. Arches National Park is one of the top national parks in America: its a 73,234-acre wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks, and, of course, arches northwest of Moab. In the winter, it can be quite cold. But hold up! Named for the reddish glow it gets at sunset, the Fiery Furnace is one of the neatest non-arch spots in Arches National Park. Devils Garden Campground is the only designated campground within Arches National Park. Directions from Moab The entrance of Arches is located 5 miles (8km) north of Moab, along highway 191. Utah National Parks Itinerary: How Many Days Do You REALLY Need? Double Arch. The park is very busy between March and October. You can absolutely hit the road and see Arches by car. In recent years, a tight network of fun singletrack trails has begun attracting mountain bikers who want epic views with moderate rides, increasing the popularity of the park. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for Christmas. Dont forget to pack out all trash, including human waste. 1,780 likes, 1 comments - Arches National Park (@archesnps) on Instagram: "There are lots of things to discover at Arches National Park. For more information on how to reserve an entry ticket, visit go.nps.gov/archesticket. This 1 mile, easy hike (one-way) wanders past massive rock formations such as the Three Gossips and the Courthouse Towers. The visitor center is typically open 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the summer and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the winter. Drive the whole park road, spending 10 minutes at each viewpoint. This is one of our favorite US national parks and we have spent quite a bit of time here. It is 19 miles long and most of the top sights in the park are found right along this road or off of short access roads. The Fiery Furnace: how to hike the most fun trail in America Walk My . Hike the world-famous Delicate Arch trail, see three separate arches on the Windows Primitive Loop, or simply soak in one of the many awe-inspiring viewpoints. Grand Junction, CO. 121 mi / 2 hours 15 mins. Things to Do A smart place to start any visit to this geological wonderland (especially for first-timers) is at the visitor center, the newest version of which opened in 2005. Hike to Landscape Arch. Northwest of Moab and about 30 miles from Canyonlands National Park, Arches offers year-round hiking, canyoneering, camping, rock climbing, and stargazing. All Rights Reserved. The best time to visit Arches National Park is in the spring (March through May) and the fall (mid-September through November), when temperatures are mild. Check out this suggested itinerary for a driving tour through Arches National Park. Connect to our social media sites, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and more. With a little extra planning, good layers, and the right equipment, however, you can enjoy Utah's national parks in the solitude of winter. In 2008 for example, the Wall Arch suddenly collapsed. To avoid traffic, we recommend entering the park before 8 am or after 3 pm. BUDGET:MainStay Suites Moab. Ranking of the top 16 things to do in Arches National Park. A day of hiking in Arches National Park is one that pairs world-famous landmark views with a humbling sense of respect for the desolate stretches of sandstone formations. There are over 2,000 documented arches in the park, ranging from sliver-thin cracks to spans greater than 300 feet (97 m). If you observe these things, report them to a ranger. There are 52 species of mammals in the park. 9 Most Famous Arches in Arches National Park - World Wide Not only is Landscape Arch the longest in the park, it also holds the record as being the longest arch in all of North America, spanning 306 feet. Delicate Arch 38.7801217,-109.5350809, map The most famous arch in the park and quite possibly the world. If youre looking for a luxurious camping experience, Moab Under Canvas is just the ticket. Double O Arch| 4.2 milesA trail to a most unusual formation where one arch is on top of another. Discover a landscape of contrasting colors, land forms, and textures unlike any other. For the ultimate adventure in Arches National Park, hike the Devils Garden Trail. This is an excellent hike for those who want to enjoy arches far from the crowds. Author and environmentalist Edward Abbey might be one of the most famous people associated with the park. Next Group. Geologic History Over 2,000 natural rock arches can be found within Arches National Park. Enjoy winter hikes, scenic drives and some of the best stargazing in the world. Located in eastern Utah, just south of I-70 and north of Moab, this high desert park covers over 75,000 acres with elevations ranging from 4,085 feet at the Visitor's Center to 5,653 feet at Elephant Butte. Pets are allowed but where they can go is limited. Quiet, Less-Traveled National Park and Preserve Roads | Via 17.7 mi / 45 mins. Pick up the booklet at the visitor center and after you complete the tasks (and hopefully learn a few things), return it there to retrieve an honorary badge. During the summer months, temperatures soar in Utah, and it is not unusual for temperatures to go above 100F. Arches National Park on Instagram: "There are lots of things to I cant wait to share what we have learned with you in this guide. Plus, two more arches are easily reached with a short side trip. Travelers favorites include #1 Landscape Arch, #2 Balanced Rock and more. Arches National Park is a vast playground for the adventurous, where everyone can find an unforgettable experience. Hikes to Balanced Rock, Double Arch, and Sand Dune Arch are easy and less than a mile long. The safest places to walk are on rocks, on trails, and in sandy washes. During the summer, consider exploring in the morning and evening. Arches charges a fee year-round. Food is not available in the park, so bring what youll need. MID-RANGE:Homewood Suites. Some of the formations date all the way back to the Jurassic period. Moab is surrounded by a sea of buckled, twisted and worn sandstone sculpted by millennia of sun, wind and rain. Everything you need to know about your visit to Arches. Show consideration for other visitors, and be a. Lastly, pick the right time to visit. Park Designations: Arches National Monument established April 12, 1929 Arches National Park established November 12, 1971 Acreage: 76,519 acres or 119 square miles Visitation: 1,539,028 (2017) View more visitation statistics. Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. There are surprisingly several species of frogs, toads and salamanders within the park. They range from budget chains like Best Western Plus and quirky indie options likeThe Gonzo Innto high-end dude ranches likeSorrel River Ranch. Arches National Park Trip Planner Discover Moab, Utah Arches National Park has the densest concentration of natural stone arches in the world. Pets are not allowed on any trails or overlooks in the park. Winter is the parks quietest season and a perfect time to see the fiery red arches with a soft dusting of white snow. Best US National Parks Month-By-Month series. The Windows and Turret Arch are several of the most popular arches to visit in the park. You can top up your refillable water container at the visitor center or Devils Garden parking area. Short answer: Yes. Assess your abilities, goals and skills and make sure your planned activities are a good match. Arches National Park is located in southeastern Utah, just north of the town of Moab. Delicate Arch viewpoint is also a piece of cake and short. Things to Do Driving, hiking, cycling, camping, stargazing, and ranger programs: there's something for everyone. Seawater subsided and left behind sand that the wind formed into dunes. Previous Group Again, you might not think this would be a bird watchers paradise on first inspection, but there are many species that migrate through this area. The park also contains an astounding variety of other geological formations. Sites are often reserved months ahead of time, and the campground is generally filled during peak season. Arches National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. There can be limited parking, long lines at the entrance gate, crowded trails, and traffic during those times. As one of the most accessible national parks in Utah, Arches offers a great balance of mild and more-challenging trails. Salt Lake City, UT. Driving, hiking, cycling, camping, stargazing, and ranger programs: there's something for everyone. An otherworldly landscape of stunning red sandstone provides the perfect backdrop for a camping adventure. Arches National Park is one of the top national parks in America: it's a 73,234-acre wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks, and, of course, arches northwest of Moab. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. With limited amenities, minimal light pollution from nearby towns, unlit trails, and almost 100 percent of night-sky friendly lighting, Arches attained certification as an international dark sky park in 2019. False! The number of people that are allowed per day is also regulated to help preserve fragile plants and habitats, so hikers must obtain a private self-guided permit for $3 to $15 (annual pass) or reserve a space on the ranger-led hike ($8 for ages 5-12 and $16 for adults). To maximize your enjoyment, consider visiting during off-peak times. Day 1: Arrive in Moab. Day 2: Arches National Park. The park is adjacent to the Colorado River, 4 mi (6 km) north of Moab, Utah. Read more about touring Arches with a pet in towhere. (You did.). Get books, maps, and other materials to help you plan your visit. Arches has one campground, Devils Garden, 18 miles from the entrance. Driving off-road, carving into rocks, graffiti, feeding wildlife, or biking off-road is illegal and punishable by law. Copyright 2023 Utah Office of Tourism. Reservations open three months in advance. You should be aware of these safety concerns to make sure you have an enjoyable visit. Pack accordingly and be sure to bring enough water, food, proper clothing and sun protection. Believe it or not, most of the sandstone from this area is over 150 million years old! Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Drive an additional 2.5 miles to the loop at the end of the road where the parking area for the trailhead is located. You can see arches, towers, pinnacles, and balanced rocks from the paved park roads. Arches is located off US-191 and I-70, about 10 minutes from the city of Moab. Erosion from wind and weather removes layers of rock, making changes over time. When Utahs dirt roads are calling you, its time to plan your van life road trip. Sure, any of Utahs Mighty 5 national parks are spectacular year round covered in snow, peppered with spring wildflowers, and baked in sunshine. The Complete Arches Trip itinerary will give you a proper lay of the surrounding area. Arches National Park is a vast playground for the adventurous, where everyone can find an unforgettable experience. Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity, Pack out everything you bring with you, including food wrappers, tissues and even crumbs. The rock layers visible in the park today were once buried by over a mile of other rock that had to erode first to expose what lied beneath. Discover tips for how to visit responsibly and maximize your enjoyment. This is one of the newest hotels in Moab and this is where we stayed on our most recent visit. Learn more about this iconic route now! Copyright 2023 Utah Office of Tourism. Browse suggestions on how to spend your visit. All of the restrooms in the campground are accessible. How To Visit The The Arches National Park Region | Visit Utah A broad peninsula of land jutting out over the spectacular White Rim of the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point State Park specializes in the type of sweeping, jaw-dropping views that make visitors run for their cameras to try and capture the areas grandeur. Arches is located in a high desert climate, meaning very hot summers, cold winters, and very little precipitation. Looking for an unconventional girls weekend getaway? There are several endangered species in the park, including the Southwest Willow Flycatcher bird and a handful of fish like the Razorback Sucker or the Colorado Pikeminnow. For the latest information, visitors may follow Arches National Park on Twitter and Facebook or check nps.gov for the latest park alerts and conditions. Skip the crowded peak season and embrace the quiet of a winter visit to Arches National Park. All have tables and toilets; some even have fire grates. Required permits can be obtained at the visitor center. In January, the average high lingers around 42F with freezing temperatures at night. Some suites can accommodate up to six people so this is a great budget choice for families. And for those who like hiking, dont miss the Devils Garden Trail, a thrilling hike where you get to see eight arches and hike on a primitive trail. To avoid the crowds, consider taking your hikes early in the morning or late in the evening, and visit the parks viewpoints at night (the stargazing is incredible). Every parking lot along the paved road has accessible spaces. This complete guide aims to help you plan when to go, what to do and see while visiting, and where to camp/stay. But Arches National Park is a strong example of how even the driest parts of America are still teeming with life. The red rock desert is a fragile ecosystem, and visitors should take special care to protect it. It is your responsibility to know park regulations when you visit. (Read: ", Stay on existing trails and do not travel off course or . Read these resources to learn how to travel thoughtfully and experience Arches National Park most fully. The park is one of Southern Utahs most famous hiking destinations, with an easily accessible network of trails that often culminate right at the base of an impressive sandstone arch. Arches National Park Fast Facts - National Parked Arches National Park is internationally known for its namesake arches and stunning red rock scenery. Though there were no witnesses, campers in Devils Garden reported hearing a loud rumbling noise. Many of the most notable arches and rock formations are visible from the road for people with physical or mobility concerns. The area has an abundance of lakes and is great for fishing, hiking and more. His passion for the area and his book, Desert Solitaire shined a light on Arches and the whole area around Moab. Add in fins of sandstone rock, hidden canyons, sweeping vistas of the La Sal Mountains, and a few hoodoos, and you have Arches National Park. It took me WAY too long to experience this national park, especially considering it is only a . Everything you need to know about getting to the park, and how to get around when you're here. I have mixed reviews about this hotel. From April 1 through October 31, 2023, daytime visitors to Arches National Park are required to have a timed entry ticket to enter the park. Visiting Arches? Then youre in luck because we arent quite done! MID-RANGE:Hyatt Place Moab. The city of Green River was once a stomping ground for Butch Cassidy and his Wild Bunch, and is a haven for river runners who raft places such as Desolation and Gray Canyons. What is more fascinating than the sheer number of arches is that the trails we use within the park system in Moab were once totally submerged in water. How Many Days Should You Spend in Arches? Get the latest conditions at the park including current COVID-19 operational updates. You may need poles and shoe spikes to navigate icy or snowy trails. The highest point in Arches is 5,653 feet at Elephant Butte. Download and print brochures and maps from Arches National Park. See Balanced Rock. Arches National Park is a red rock paradise and also a very popular destination. Stop by the visitor center to learn more about ranger-led programs. As one of Utahs most coveted national parks, Arches tends to get very busy during the warm-weather months. Along with those species, there are around 20 other threatened plants and animals. NPS/Neal Herbert It's difficult to see Delicate Arch from the main park road; you must get out of the car to view it. Plan Your Visit - Arches National Park (U.S. National Park Service) Taking anywhere from 15 minutes to five hours to complete, Arches hastrailsfor every level of hiker that range in length from 50 yards long (the nature trail at the visitor center) to 7.8 miles. Arches National Park - Wikipedia The Perfect 2 Days in Arches National Park Itinerary Want to bring your furry friend on your next vacation? Drops of rainwater soak into the porous Entrada sandstone easily and then slowly dissolve the calcite bonding the sand together in other words, rotting the rock from the inside out. Fiery Furnace| 2 milesA ranger-led (or permit required) hike to a rare desert environment named for the reddish glow it often takes on at sunset, which resembles a furnace. The location is great, right in the heart of Moab with a walk or short drive to most restaurants. However, the walls are paper thin. One Day in Arches National Park Itinerary! - My Perfect Itinerary All of these unique gateway communities offer lodging, dining, shops and guided outfitters to help make the most of your visit to the area. This 2 mile strenuous hike takes you through a maze of canyons formed by sandstone fins. Utah is home to several great dog-friendly national parks and other fun destinations. It has a large outdoor plaza for after-hours visitors as well. This is one of our favorite 10 day road trips in the USA. This red-rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations, refresh you with its trails, and inspire you with its sunsets. If you arent an avid hiker, there is a scenic drive that can make Arches National Park accessible for everyone. Under pressure? Day 1. So, what do you need to know before you go? Arches National Park - WorldAtlas If youre planning a trip to this must-see destination or just want to win that upcoming National Parks trivia night, weve got you covered with all the Arches National Park facts you could possibly want. Skip the crowded peak season and embrace the quiet of a winter visit to Arches National Park. A few hours south of Salt Lake City is one of five of Utah's National Parks: Arches. For most travelers, Southern Utah winters prevent comfortable camping, and occasional snowfall can make outdoor adventure a little more challenging. There is a short loop trail that circles around the base of Balanced Rock for closer views. From April 1 through October 31, 2023, daytime visitors to Arches National Park are required to have a timed entry ticket to enter the park. Take a Tour of the Fiery Furnace. Then and Now - Arches National Park (U.S. National Park Service) Green River State Park. Tower Arch | 3.4 miles A moderate (or even strenuous) hike to one of the most remote arches in Arches National Park. To find what lands we are recreating on, you can use the app Native Lands to learn the history of our parks. It can be found about a mile down the trail in the Devils Garden area. Highest Elevation: Elephant Butte 5,653 feet Lowest Elevation: Visitor Center 4,085 feet Its not until you see a photo of someone standing under the arch (or you stand under it yourself) that you get an idea of just how big it is. Double Arch| .8 mileOne of the most popular hikes in the park, this short trail ends beneath a spectacular arch. Delicate Arch is undoubtedly the most famous in the park and arguably one of the most iconic natural stone arches in the world. First, you need the right kinds of rock. From April 1 to October 31, visitors are required to have a timed entry ticket to enter the park. Still not had enough Arches National Park knowledge? Arches Scenic Drive. Arches National Park comprises 76,519 acres or 119 square miles. Others call it charming, with the soulful town of Moab and some of Southern Utahs best viewpoints nearby. The fact that over 2,000 still stand, waiting for visitors to discover them, tells us this area has been rather geologically stable for at least 50,000 years. Arches National Park contains the world's largest concentration of natural sandstone arches. Make your fun adventure a safe one too! Tree carvings, rock etchings and spray painting are forms of vandalism and graffiti, which are illegal on public lands. Petrified dunes developed and through long term wind and rain, it formed the landscape we see today. This is a newer hotel in Moab and very highly rated. Drive to The Windows Section and see some of the parks largest arches. The tent pad is dirt, but the rest of the site is paved for easier wheelchair maneuvering. With two weeks in the American Southwest, go on an epic road trip to the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches National Park. The diversity and beauty found in Utah has often been captured by women. The Garden of Eden, with its knobby hoodoos and sandstone rock formations, is a great spot to visit. Arches National Park is one of the top national parks in America: its a 73,234-acre wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks, and, of course, arches northwest of Moab. Nearby Moab has plenty of hotels to keep you within comfortable reach of Arches National Park. Arches requires visitors to pack out solid human waste, toilet paper and hygiene items. View a downloadable map of Arches National Park, Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. This national park in southeastern Utah has dramatic landscapes, excellent hiking, epic photo opportunities for the gram, and more natural arches than you can imagine. Plus, sudden rain storms frequently pass over the park unannounced. You can find great spots to refuel and rest between hiking and sightseeing at the visitor center, across from Balanced Rock, Panorama Point, Delicate Arch Viewpoint, and Devils Garden. It is a little less than 30 miles from Canyonlands National Park, so its quite easy to see both in one trip. Learn about the major sites inside the park. Alright geologist junkies and you ladies who just like to learn about big rocks, lets dish out some knowledge. In our Utah National Parks Itinerary Guide, we give an overview of five different ways to visit Utah's Mighty 5, ranging from 7 to 14 days. Green River, UT Green River State Park is a great place to begin your adventure on the Green River. Relevance Thrill-seekers call it an action sports hub, thanks to the world-class mountain biking, white water rafting and OHV trails nearby. Visiting Arches National Park the Right Way | Visit Utah How did so many arches form? Red Cliffs Lodge is located outside of Moab, on Highway 128, in a beautiful setting along the Colorado River. They are not allowed on trails. 16 Amazing Things to do in Arches National Park (+ HELPFUL Tips) It is 19 miles in length, from Highway 191 to the Devils Garden trailhead in the back of the park. Leave drones and pets at home. Arches National Park Facts That Will Blow Your Mind Get more information about what is allowed in terms of these two sportshere. They can be securedonlineor in-person at the visitor center. In winter, enjoy iconic landmarks in solitude. Arches National Park is a vast playground for the adventurous, where everyone can find an unforgettable experience. Learn about the park and have fun during your visit! Arches National Park Camping. Delicate Arch is one of the most famous geologic structures in the world. To get here it is a short, easy walk on sandy trails. Info Alerts 2 Maps Calendar Fees A red-rock wonderland Discover a landscape of contrasting colors, land forms, and textures unlike any other. Courthouse Wash has a prehistoric art panel at the base of the cliff walls facing west. Learn all about the geology and the famous namesake features of Arches National Park. Reservations open three months in advance. Experiencing the peace of canyon country in the winter is an attraction of its own. Arches National Park is often found in top ten lists of popular parks to visit in the US. Some trails are hard-packed and relatively flat like Double Arch Trail and therefore considered barrier-free.