Arches National Park: An Otherworldly Landscape in the American West

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. Having lived in the Beehive State for most of my life, I have spent a lot of time in Utah's national parks. Each park has something extraordinary to offer but if you are searching for a destination 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, this national park near Moab, Utah, will help you create unforgettable memories.

What Makes Arches National Park Unique?

Located in eastern Utah, near the Utah and Colorado border, you'll find the small town of Moab and Arches National Park. This incredible destination 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. I have visited this national park multiple times throughout my life, and each time I enter this jaw-dropping landscape, I am in awe of its red rock 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, arches have widened, and some even collapsed. I love to tell my children that at destinations like Arches, Mother Nature loves to show us that she's still in charge.

Getting To/Accessing Arches National Park

Arches National Park is a red rock wonderland just outside Moab. You will need some form of transportation to access the park, as there is no public transportation inside it. Exploring the park by car, on a commercial tour, or even on a bicycle is best.

However, if you visit Arches National Park between April and October, a timed entry ticket is required. These tickets are required in addition to your park pass or your entry fee to reduce traffic and congestion within the park. Time entry tickets can be reserved up to six months in advance. You can learn more on the National Park Service website.

Outdoor Activities at Arches National Park

While I am certainly in awe of the beauty and the natural features in Arches NP, the variety of outdoor activities is what keeps me coming back time and time again. Whether you're an experienced outdoor adventurer or you're looking to step out of your comfort zone, you'll find something to love here.

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

Delicate Arch is one of the more popular arches in this national park and one I strongly recommend adding to your itinerary. A difficult 3-mile hike on open slickrock will get you up close to this incredible arch. If you’re looking for something a little easier, you can still take in the beauty of this impressive arch at the Delicate Arch Viewpoints.

For young children and those with mobility impairments, a hike to the stunning Double Arch is a must-do. This 0.5-mile hike is on a gravel surface and relatively flat. The double arches at the end of the trail are a picture-worthy finish and help you fall in love with this beautiful area.

Scenic Drives in Arches National Park

Nothing in your life will have prepared you for the surreal landscapes you'll encounter throughout the park and you don’t have to hike to see all that the Arches National Park has to offer. In fact, the scenic drives through this national park will take you to some breathtaking views.

And while there are several options, I recommend you drive to the Windows Section of the park to see some of the largest arches in Utah. Or, if you want a little more adventure, check out one of the unpaved roads in the park. One of the more popular, unpaved scenic drives is Salt Valley Road, which will take you from the main park road to Klondike Bluffs and the Tower Arch trailhead. Keep in mind that 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.

Stargazing at Arches National Park

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 in Utah and is a certified International Dark Sky Park. In the right conditions, you can see an estimated 2,500 stars at once. And some of the best places to stargaze in Arches National Park include the Balanced Rock Picnic Area, The Windows Section, Garden of Eden Viewpoint, and Panorama Point.

Give yourself plenty of time to explore Arches National Park by staying overnight. Devils Garden Campground is the only campground inside the national park, and it offers 51 total campsites. This campground is open year-round, and from November to February, campsites are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Throughout the rest of the year, you can place reservations. However, you will want to reserve your campsite far in advance as this campground is typically full each night during the summer season.

Where to Stay Near Arches National Park

As mentioned previously, there is only one campground within Arches National Park and it fills up quickly. Fortunately, Moab offers many places to stay from RV parks to glampgrounds and hotels to vacation rentals.

When I have visited Arches National Park in the past, I have stayed at vacation rentals similar to this spacious home that sits a little outside of town but the views are incredible and with a wall full of windows, you won’t miss out no matter whether you are indoors or outdoors. I also love to stay at destinations like Under Canvas Moab, a glampground that feels more like a luxury retreat. If you want to stargaze but don’t want to sleep in a traditional tent and the hard ground, this is the ultimate way to go.

Practical Tips for Visiting Arches National Park

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. I recommend visiting in the winter, early mornings, and the middle of the week to avoid parking hassles.

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

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

Is Arches National Park Worth Visiting?

After you have visited Arches National Park just once, you'll quickly understand why it is one of the most popular and busiest national parks in America. It is beautiful here and it is the ultimate outdoor playground. Even the small town of Moab, Utah, just outside of the park, has such charm and excitement that you'll never want to leave. There's a reason I've visited numerous times throughout my lifetime and will continue. There's no place quite like it.

To learn even more about Arches National Park, please visit the National Park Service website.

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.