Arches National Park, renowned for its stunning natural arches and otherworldly landscapes, is a dream destination for first-time visitors. With over 2,000 natural stone arches and a wealth of outdoor activities, the park offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. This guide highlights twelve must-do activities to help you make the most of your inaugural visit to Arches National Park.
The Milky Way passes through Landscape Arch in Arches National Park. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Why You Should Visit
Arches National Park, located in southeastern Utah, is famous for its striking red rock formations and unique geological features. With its accessible trails, diverse landscapes, and numerous outdoor activities, the park is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, Arches offers something for everyone. Its combination of iconic landmarks, challenging hikes, and serene vistas makes it a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.
12 Things You Should Do
1) Hike to Delicate Arch
Delicate Arch is perhaps the most iconic landmark in Arches National Park, and hiking to it is a quintessential experience. This 3-mile round-trip trail leads you through stunning desert scenery to a dramatic arch set against a picturesque backdrop. The hike provides a rewarding view of the arch and a sense of accomplishment for those who reach it.
Highlights:
Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Iconic Photo Op: Capture the arch against the expansive desert sky.
Sunrise or Sunset: The arch is particularly stunning during golden hours.
Moderate Challenge: A rewarding hike with some elevation gain.
2) Explore The Windows Section
The Windows Section is home to several impressive arches, including the North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. This relatively easy 1-mile loop trail allows you to experience these magnificent structures up close and offers fantastic photo opportunities. The area’s accessible trails and stunning vistas make it a must-see for any visitor.
Highlights:
Multiple Arches: See several notable arches in one trail.
Easy Access: Short and manageable hike suitable for all fitness levels.
Scenic Views: Excellent vantage points for photography.
Great for Families: An easy walk for visitors of all ages.
3) Visit Landscape Arch
Landscape Arch is one of the longest natural arches in the world, stretching nearly 300 feet. The 1.6-mile round-trip trail leading to it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a close-up look at this engineering marvel. This hike is relatively short but showcases some of the park's most impressive geology.
Highlights:
Giant Arch: Marvel at one of the longest natural arches.
Stunning Scenery: Enjoy views of the surrounding rock formations.
Short Hike: A relatively easy trail with minimal elevation change.
Photo Opportunities: Perfect for capturing the arch’s grandeur.
4) Hike to Fiery Furnace
The Fiery Furnace offers a unique hiking experience with its labyrinthine canyons and narrow passages. Due to its challenging terrain, hiking here requires a permit or a guided tour. The maze-like landscape provides a sense of adventure and exploration that’s different from the park’s other trails.
Highlights:
Adventure: Navigate through a maze of canyons and rock formations.
Permits Required: Secure a permit or join a guided tour for safety.
Unique Terrain: Experience a different side of the park’s geology.
Solitude: Enjoy a less crowded, more immersive experience.
5) Rock Climb at Fisher Towers
Located just outside the park, Fisher Towers is renowned for its world-class rock climbing routes. The towers offer various climbs suitable for different skill levels, with dramatic views of the surrounding desert. Climbing here provides an exhilarating challenge and a chance to experience the park's landscape from above.
Highlights:
World-Class Routes: Access renowned climbing routes with varying difficulties.
Stunning Views: Climb with expansive desert vistas as your backdrop.
Technical Challenge: Ideal for climbers seeking a challenge.
Local Expertise: Hire guides to explore the best routes.
6) Discover the Devil’s Garden
The Devil’s Garden area features a collection of arches, including the Double O Arch. The 7.2-mile loop trail here offers a more extended and diverse hiking experience, with rock formations that range from impressive to whimsical. The area is known for its dramatic scenery and unique rock features.
Highlights:
Variety of Arches: See multiple arches in one hike.
Extended Trail: A longer hike with diverse rock formations.
Scenic Beauty: Enjoy unique and dramatic landscapes.
Advanced Hike: Suitable for those looking for a more challenging trail.
7) Enjoy Stargazing at Arches
Arches National Park's remote location provides some of the best stargazing opportunities in the region. The clear desert skies are perfect for viewing stars, planets, and the Milky Way. The park’s arches also create stunning silhouettes against the night sky.
Highlights:
Clear Skies: Excellent visibility for stargazing.
Arch Silhouettes: Unique photo opportunities with arches against the night sky.
Celestial Viewing: See stars, planets, and the Milky Way clearly.
Peaceful Experience: Enjoy the tranquility of the desert night.
8) Take a Scenic Drive on the Arches Scenic Drive
The 18-mile Arches Scenic Drive provides an overview of the park’s key landmarks and stunning vistas. This drive includes several pullouts where you can stop to take photos and appreciate the views. It’s a great way to see the park’s highlights if you have limited time.
Highlights:
Panoramic Views: See key landmarks from the comfort of your vehicle.
Convenient Stops: Multiple pullouts for photo opportunities and brief walks.
Accessible Exploration: Ideal for visitors with limited time.
Diverse Scenery: Enjoy a range of landscapes and rock formations.
9) Canyoneer in the Park’s Hidden Canyons
For a more adventurous experience, canyoneering in Arches' lesser-known canyons offers a thrilling exploration of narrow passages and unique rock formations. This activity requires technical skills and careful planning but provides an exciting way to experience the park’s hidden gems.
Highlights:
Technical Adventure: Engage in a challenging and exciting activity.
Hidden Gems: Discover less-visited canyons and rock formations.
Permits and Guides: Obtain permits or hire a guide for a safe experience.
Unique Terrain: Experience the park’s diverse geology from a different perspective.
10) Flat Water Kayaking on the Colorado River
Although not directly within the park, the nearby Colorado River provides excellent flat-water kayaking opportunities. Paddling on the river allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the desert from a unique perspective and offers a relaxing break from hiking.
Highlights:
Serene Paddling: Enjoy a peaceful and scenic kayaking experience.
Desert Views: Take in unique views of the desert landscape from the water.
Rental Options: Equipment can be rented from local outfitters in Moab.
Relaxing Activity: A great way to unwind and cool off after a hike.
11) Hike the Park Avenue Trail
The Park Avenue Trail is a relatively short hike that takes you through a stunning canyon flanked by towering rock formations. The 2-mile round-trip trail offers dramatic views and a sense of walking through a natural cathedral of stone.
Highlights:
Towering Walls: Experience the grandeur of the canyon’s towering rock formations.
Short and Sweet: A manageable hike with rewarding views.
Photogenic Scenery: Ideal for capturing dramatic landscape photos.
Accessible Trail: Suitable for all levels of hikers.
12) Visit the Arches National Park Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for first-time visitors. It provides valuable information about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife, as well as maps and advice on current trail conditions and park updates.
Highlights:
Informative Exhibits: Learn about the park’s history and geology.
Maps and Guidance: Get maps and current trail information.
Park Updates: Receive up-to-date information on trail conditions and alerts.
Ranger Advice: Speak with park rangers for personalized recommendations.
Balanced Rock at sunrise in Arches National Park. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Arches National Park offers an array of experiences that cater to adventurers and nature lovers alike. For first-time visitors, these twelve activities provide a comprehensive introduction to the park’s stunning landscapes and unique features. From iconic hikes and challenging climbs to serene river paddles and captivating stargazing, Arches promises a memorable adventure. Embrace the park’s natural beauty, explore its diverse trails, and let your first visit be an unforgettable journey into one of Utah’s most remarkable outdoor destinations.