Arches National Park In Utah Features 2,000 Breathtaking Arches

It is no secret there are mesmerizing, stunning landscapes around the United States and the great American West seems to be hiding otherworldly landscapes around every bend in the road. If you are looking for a destination to add to your bucket list that is not only picturesque but also offers plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy, Arches National Park is the place for you. With gorgeous red rock, thousands of natural stone arches, beautiful skies, and dozens of trails to explore, Arches National Park will help you create unforgettable memories.

Located in eastern Utah, near the Utah and Colorado border, you'll find the small town of Moab and Arches National Park.

This national park in Utah is filled with red stone called slickrock that was formed by wind erosion that left nothing but smooth, polished outcroppings. The park itself is packed with incredible trails and plenty of wildlife.

The Arches area was initially protected as a National Monument in 1929, and in 1971 it was elevated to National Park status. The minute you enter this jaw-dropping landscape, you’ll be impressed and blown away by its beauty.

There are more than 2,000 natural stone arches throughout this national park - and many of them date back more than 65 million years.

The weather and outdoor elements that formed the arches over the millennia are still continually changing the arches. In fact, throughout the years, these arches are widening and some even collapse.

There is something for everyone at Arches National Park, whether you're an experienced outdoor adventurer or you're looking to step out of your comfort zone.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in this national park, and it's the best way to see the sand and stone structures up close.

There are trails for all skill levels throughout Arches National Park, so don't be discouraged if you're new to trekking. A handful of trails are less than one mile, and many are wheelchair accessible.

Delicate Arch is one of the more popular arches in this national park.

For young children and those with mobility impairments, a hike to the stunning Double Arch is a must-do.

Nothing in your life so far will have prepared you for the surreal landscapes you'll encounter throughout the park.

You don’t have to hike to see all that the Arches National Park has to offer. The scenic drives through this national park will take you to some breathtaking views.

You may drive to the Windows Section of the park to see some of the largest arches in the state!

If you want a little more adventure, check out one of the unpaved roads in the park. These roads can be a little rough and require an automobile with high clearance and four-wheel drive. Be sure to bring extra provisions and check in with the rangers before heading out.

If you're a night owl or a photographer, you'll want to visit for the dark skies alone. Arches National Park also offers some of the best stargazing around. In the right conditions, you can see an estimated 2,500 stars at once.

The park is a certified International Dark-Sky Park. Some of the best places to stargaze in this national park include the Balanced Rock Picnic Area, The Windows Section, Garden of Eden Viewpoint, and Panorama Point.

Don't forget to pack your camera! If you're a skilled photographer, you'll already have a shot list in mind before you head out. If you're new to photography, don't worry, there are gorgeous scenes around every corner.

This national park is an excellent place to put your photography skills to use or to practice developing your photo talents. In the early morning, visit Sheep Rock for a stunning image. In the late afternoon, visit Balanced Rock for the perfect photo.

Give yourself plenty of time to explore Arches National Park by staying overnight. Devils Garden Campground is the only campground inside the national park. You will want to reserve your campsite far in advance as this campground fills up very quickly.

For a trip that you will never forget, visit Arches National Park near Moab, Utah. It will be an experience that you’ll want to relive over and over again.

For an incredible perspective of Arches National Park from above, watch the brief video below and prepare to be inspired to plan your trip to this incredible Utah destination!

General Information:

Accessibility: Arches National Park offers many areas that are easily accessible by those in a wheelchair or who have mobility impairments. By staying on the paved roads, guests can see many of the arches and other popular attractions.

Devils Garden Campground also offers campsites and restrooms that are wheelchair accessible. Picnic areas, the visitor’s center, several trails, and various overlooks are paved and accessible for those with mobility impairments. For a complete look at these areas, visit the National Park Service website.

Pet-Friendly: While you can bring your pet into Arches National Park, there are many guidelines and rules that you must follow. Pets are not allowed on any trails or off a paved road, even if in a carrier. You also cannot bring your pet to any overlooks, the visitor’s center, or any building inside the national park.

If you choose to bring your family animal, your pet must be on a leash no more than 6-feet long at all times.

Parking: Parking your vehicle can be a challenge inside Arches National Park. You will find parking areas at the most popular attractions. However, these areas are often busy and it can be difficult to find an available parking space. If bringing oversized vehicles such as RVs and trailers, parking is even more limited. Click here to learn more about each specific parking area in the park.

Seasonal Access: Arches National Park is open year-round. This national park is also open 24 hours a day. However, be aware that March through October is peak season and the park can become very full. In some instances, there may be large delays to enter the park.

Cost: There is a $30 entrance fee for each vehicle. If on a bicycle or hiking through the park, there is a $15 entrance fee.

Entrance Free Days: Throughout the year, the National Park Service offers a handful of days where admission into the parks is totally free. These are great times to cross a park or two off of your bucket list! Some of the fee-free days include the following:

Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. — January 16th
First day of National Park Week — April 22nd
Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act — August 4th
National Public Lands Day — September 23rd
Veterans Day — November 11th

For more information, be sure to check out the National Park Service website.

Restrooms: You’ll find restrooms and drinking water available at the Arches National Park Visitor Center.

For a peek at the park, plus 12 fascinating facts, check out our video below.

Looking for more jaw-dropping places to add to your travel Bucket List? Read about the Hoh Rain Forest in Washington for another spot worthy of a little adventure.

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Beth C. | March 08, 2023

Which national parks are located in Utah?

Utah is home to some of the country's most awe-inspiring national parks. These include:

Arches National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park
Canyonlands National Park
Capitol Reef National Park
Zion National Park

Often referred to as the "Mighty 5," each of these iconic national parks in Utah certainly warrants a place on your outdoor bucket list! For an unforgettable way to explore these parks, check out our national park road trip in Utah which will take you to these exquisite destinations.

What are the best state parks to visit in Utah?

Just as impressive as the national parks are the state parks scattered throughout Utah. These state parks are often less crowded yet provide just as much breathtaking scenery! Below you'll find a list of some of the very best state parks to visit in Utah:

Antelope Island State Park
Quail Creek State Park
Kodachrome Basin State Park
Gunlock State Park
Goblin Valley State Park
Bear Lake State Park
Green River State Park
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Dead Horse Point State Park
Huntington State Park
Palisade State Park
Wasatch Mountain State Park

Curious to explore these amazing destinations? Check out our previous article highlighting some of the best state parks in Utah to visit.

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Arches National Park Visitor Center, Moab, UT 84532, USA

Arches National Park: An Otherworldly Landscape In The American West

Courtnie Erickson

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