Arches National Park — 40 Things To Do!

Arches National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder located in eastern Utah, known for its over 2,000 natural stone arches. The park’s striking red rock formations, scenic drives, and hiking trails make it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re here to admire Delicate Arch at sunset, hike the Devil’s Garden Trail, or simply soak in the beauty of the landscape, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Arches National Park during your visit to Utah.

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1. Must-See Attractions

Landscape Arch

The Landscape Arch is one of the longest natural arches in the world, stretching across the desert in a thin, delicate shape. The hike to reach it is about 1.6 miles round-trip along the Devils Garden Trail as it leads to the stunning view of the arch in the distance. Its size is impressive, but its slender form makes it look fragile, as if it could break at any time. Over the years, pieces of rock have fallen from the arch, showing how nature is slowly shaping the landscape. Because of this, visitors can no longer walk directly underneath it, but there are plenty of great spots along the trail to enjoy the view.

Delicate Arch

The Delicate Arch is one of the most famous landmarks in the Arches National Park. It stands alone, rising from the desert landscape with no other rock formations around it. The hike to reach the arch is about 3 miles round-trip and takes visitors through open rock stretches and steep sections. Along the way, smaller arches and unique sandstone features add to the experience. The final part of the trail leads to a wide rock ledge, where the arch suddenly comes into view. The area around the arch has space to sit and take in the view, letting visitors enjoy the quiet moment before heading back.

Balanced Rock

The Balanced Rock is one of the most interesting natural formations, as it stands tall, with a large boulder resting on a narrow base, looking like it could tip over at any moment. This area is easy to reach, with a short trail leading to its base, making it a great stop for visitors of all ages. Walking around it gives different angles of the rock, showing just how thin the lower section really is. The size is surprising, with the boulder at the top standing about as tall as three school buses stacked on top of each other. Since it is right off the main road, it’s a quick and rewarding stop during a visit to the park.

Double Arch

The Double Arch is one of the most fascinating formations, with two giant arches connected at one end, creating a wide open space underneath. The short hike to reach it is less than half a mile, making it easy for visitors of all ages. Walking towards the arch, these massive rock spans tower overhead, framing the sky in a way that feels larger than life. Unlike other arches formed by wind, Double Arch was shaped by water erosion, making its structure different from the rest in the park. The area around the arch allow visitors to climb up the rock slopes and take in the view from different angles.

Corona Arch

The Corona Arch standing tall with its smooth, curved shape against the desert landscape. The hike to reach it is about 3 miles round-trip, offering a mix of sandy trails, slick rock, and a few small climbs. Along the way, visitors pass other rock features, including Bowtie Arch, making the journey as exciting as the destination. The final stretch requires a short climb up a rock ledge, assisted by a safety cable, but nothing too difficult. Once at the arch, the view is breathtaking! Unlike some formations in the park, visitors can walk right up to the base, giving a chance to enjoy in its impressive shape.

Broken Arch

Despite its name, the Broken Arch is not actually broken, it has a unique split at the top that makes it look like it could fall apart. The hike to reach it is about 2 miles round-trip, moving through sandy trails and open desert before reaching the arch itself. Along the way, visitors pass smaller rock formations and desert plants that add to the experience. Unlike some arches that stand alone, Broken Arch sits in an open landscape, making it easy to see from a distance. The trail leads right underneath the arch base, allowing hikers to walk through the arch and explore the views on the other side.

Skyline Arch

The Skyline Arch sits high on a sandstone ridge, standing out against the open desert sky. The hike to reach it is short and simple, making it easy for visitors to stop and take in the view. Unlike some of the park’s arches that require long hikes, this one is close to the road, allowing quick access. The arch has an interesting history, back in the 1940s, a large piece of rock suddenly broke off, doubling the size of the opening. This natural event is a reminder of how landscapes constantly change over time. Walking toward Skyline Arch, visitors get a great view of its smooth, curved shape arch.

Tower Arch

The Tower Arch is located away from the busy main roads of the park and provide a chance to explore Utah’s rugged desert landscape. The hike to reach it is about 3.4 miles round-trip, passing through sandy terrain and rock formations. Unlike some of the park’s more famous arches, Tower Arch requires a bit more effort to reach, but the reward is well worth it. The trail has some moderate climbs, making it a great adventure for those looking to avoid crowds. Once at the arch, the view is stunning and tall frame stand against the open desert, making it one of the park’s unique formations.

Sand Dune Arch

The Sand Dune Arch is a hidden spot sits between tall sandstone walls with soft sand covering the ground. The short trail leading to the arch is easy, making it a great stop for families and visitors. Walking through the narrow canyon, the temperature feels cooler, offering a nice break from the heat. The sand around it is deep and soft, giving it a different feel compared to the rest of the park’s rocky trails. Since the area is protected by towering walls, it feels peaceful, almost like stepping into a secret space. Kids enjoy playing in the sand, while hikers take time to appreciate the unique setting.

Ring Arch

The Ring Arch is a lesser-known rock formation, sitting away from the busier trails. Unlike many of the park’s arches, this one is harder to reach, resting along a rugged section of the landscape. The arch has a thin, curved shape, almost like a ring pressed into the sandstone, giving it a unique look. Those who want to see it up close often follow unmarked paths or scramble over rocky terrain. Looking up at the arch, visitors get a sense of how erosion slowly carves the land into unexpected shapes. Since there are no signs leading to it, spotting Ring Arch feels like discovering a hidden treasure in the park.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Hiking and Nature Trails

Hiking trails in Arches National Park is the best way to explore the stunning rock formations and desert landscapes up close. Some of the easiest trails include The Windows and Double Arch, both providing quick access to impressive rock features without much effort. For those looking for a bit more adventure, the hike to Delicate Arch is a popular choice, leading to one of the park’s most famous sights. The trail is about 3 miles round-trip, climbing over open rock stretches before revealing the arch standing alone against the sky.

Landscape Arch is another must-see, reached by an easy walk through Devils Garden, showing off one of the longest natural arches in the world. More challenging trails, like the Fiery Furnace, require careful navigation, winding through tight sandstone passages and hidden corners of the park. Since temperatures can be high, carrying water is important for any hike, especially in the warmer months. Early morning and late afternoon hikes offer cooler weather and better lighting for photos, making them the best times to explore.

Kayaking and Rafting

Just outside the Arches National Park, the Colorado River offers exciting opportunities for both kayaking and rafting, with calm waters mixed with thrilling rapids. Many outfitters in Moab such as Mild to Wild Rafting or Wild West Voyages, provide guided trips for all skill levels, from peaceful paddles through scenic stretches to challenging whitewater runs. Kayakers can explore quiet sections of the river, taking in the red rock cliffs and spotting wildlife along the shore. Rafting trips range from half-day outings to multi-day adventures, giving visitors a chance to experience the river in different ways.

Rock Climbing

The Arches National Park has a variety of rock climbing routes, ranging from beginner-friendly climbs to more challenging walls that require technical skills. The famous towers, such as Owl Rock and the Three Penguins, are popular spots for those looking to test their skills while enjoying breathtaking views. Most climbing areas require traditional protection, meaning climbers must place their own gear or rent one, rather than relying on fixed bolts. Because of the fragile nature of the rock, the park has special rules, including restrictions on climbing designated arches to preserve their structure.

Mountain Biking

The scenic roads through the Arches National Park are open for mountain biking, offering smooth pavement and incredible views of the towering rock formations. Riding along these roads lets bikers take in the beauty at a slower pace while avoiding the crowds that fill parking areas and shuttle stops. Outside the park, several mountain biking trails offer exciting rides across the desert area. Moab, located nearby, is one of the top mountain biking destinations, with famous trails like Slickrock and the Moab Brands system providing a mix of smooth rock, sandy sections, and challenging climbs.

Double O Arch

The Double O Arch is located along the Devils Garden trail, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike. The arch gets its name from the two openings stacked on top of each other, creating an unusual shape that stands out among the park’s many formations. The trail leading to the arch is rugged, with uneven surfaces and sections that require scrambling over rock. Unlike some of the park’s easier trails, this one demands more effort, but the views along the way make it worth the hike. Walking through the desert area, visitors pass sandstone fins, narrow ridges, and sweeping canyon views.

The Phallus Pillar

The Phallus Pillar is a tall sandstone formation shaped by years of wind and water erosion. Rising nearly 100 feet, it stands against the vast desert, catching the eye with its unique structure. The pillar is located near other famous formations, making it easy to spot while exploring the park. The best views come from a distance, where its vertical lines contrast sharply with the open sky. Though there are no marked trails leading directly to it, visitors often admire it from nearby viewpoints or while hiking in the area. The surrounding area offering a peaceful break from the busier sections of the park.

Petrified Dunes

The Petrified Dunes showcase how ancient sand dunes slowly turned to stone over time. These formations stretch across the desert, creating rolling hills of solid rock that were once loose sand shaped by the wind. The process of hardening took thousands of years, with minerals binding the grains together until they became part of the solid ground. As you explore the area, you can see how the shapes still resemble the movement of sand, frozen in place by time. The viewpoint near the main road offers a great look at the wide stretch of formations, with the La Sal Mountains in the background.

Morning Glory Arch

Located in Grandstaff Canyon near Moab, the hike to reach Morning Glory Arch is about 2.4 miles one way, following a scenic trail along a creek, with tall sandstone cliffs rising on both sides. The arch itself is wide, stretching across the back of a side canyon, creating a natural bridge that blends into the surrounding rock. The trail is easy to follow, with several creek crossings that make the journey feel refreshing. Many hikers enjoy walking along the water, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. A small water flow near the arch supports plants, bringing a bit of greenery into the desert surroundings.

Mill Creek Waterfall

Just outside Arches National Park, Mill Creek Waterfall is a hidden spot near Moab, offering a refreshing escape from the desert heat, surrounded by red rock cliffs. The trail to the waterfall is about 2 miles round-trip, moving through rocky paths and small streams before reaching the flowing water. Hikers will walk through shallow creeks, making water-friendly shoes helpful for the journey. The trail is not difficult, but it does require stepping through uneven terrain at times. The pool below is deep enough for swimming, and many people enjoy wading in the cool water after a hot day of hiking.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Moab Giants

The Moab Giants is a dinosaur-themed attraction offers a mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits. The park features life-size dinosaur models, showing what these creatures might have looked like when they roamed the land millions of years ago. Walking along the outdoors, visitors can see over 100 dinosaur replicas, each placed in a setting that matches their prehistoric environment. It provides more details about fossils, tracks, and the history of dinosaurs in the region. One of the highlights is the 5D Prehistoric Aquarium, which gives a virtual underwater experience with ancient sea creatures.

Intestine Man Petroglyphs

The Intestine Man Petroglyphs features ancient rock art, including a well-known pictograph of a human figure with markings that resemble intestines or possibly a snake. The artwork is painted onto the red rock rather than carved, making it stand out from other petroglyphs in the area. Since the artwork is fragile, it is important to observe without touching to help preserve it for future generations. The rock art here offers a rare look into the past, showing symbols left behind by early inhabitants. The designs represent stories, rituals, or events important to the people who created them.

Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite

The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Tracksite is one of the largest and most diverse dinosaur tracksites in North America. The short, easy trail leads visitors through an area filled with fossilized footprints left behind by dinosaurs millions of years ago. More than 200 tracks have been discovered here, including prints from long-necked plant-eaters, sharp-clawed carnivores, and even ancient crocodiles. The tracks are preserved in hardened mud, showing clear impressions of the creatures that once walked this land. Since the site is fragile, visitors must stay on marked paths to help protect the fossils.

Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs

The Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs is a scenic route that runs along the Colorado River, with towering red rock cliffs creating a dramatic backdrop. Along the way, travelers can see petroglyphs carved into the rock by Indigenous peoples, showing images of animals, human figures, and symbols that hold deep meaning. Some of these carvings are easy to spot along the road, while others require a short walk to view up close. Nearby, visitors can find dinosaur tracks preserved in a fallen slab of stone, offering a glimpse into a prehistoric time when dinosaurs roamed in this region.

Wolfe Ranch

The Wolfe Ranch is a small historic site that tells the story of early settlers in the area. The cabin was built in the late 1800s by John Wesley Wolfe, who moved to this harsh desert landscape with his family. Made of logs and simple materials, the structure has stood for more than a century, showing what life was like for pioneers who lived far from towns. The ranch sits near the trailhead for Delicate Arch, making it easy to visit on the way to one of the park’s most famous landmarks. As you explore, you can see the old wooden cabin, a storage building, and a corral once used for livestock.

Monitor and Merrimac View Area

The Monitor and Merrimac View Area features two towering rock formations named after Civil War ironclad ships. These sandstone rise about 600 feet above the desert, standing side by side in a way that resembles the historic battle between the Monitor and Merrimac ships. The viewpoint sits along Highway 313, making it an easy stop for visitors heading toward Arches National Park or Canyonlands. The formations are made of Entrada sandstone, the same type of rock that forms many of the arches in the park. Over time, erosion has shaped these buttes, creating their distinct appearance.

Windows Section

The Windows Section is one of the easiest places to see several rock formations in a short amount of time. The area is home to some of the park’s largest and most accessible arches, making it a great stop for visitors looking to explore without a long hike. The short trail leads to North Window and South Window, two massive openings in the rock that frame the desert landscape. The nearby Turret Arch stands tall with its unique shape, adding to the beauty of the area. Walking among these formations gives visitors a close-up view of the way wind and water have shaped the rock over time.

Devil’s Garden

The Devil’s Garden offering a mix of stunning rock formations, hidden arches, and quiet desert trails. The hike through this area is one of the longest in the park, stretching over several miles and easy to follow, but it can be done in sections depending on how much time visitors have. The most famous sight here is Landscape Arch, one of the longest natural arch es in the world. Beyond Landscape Arch, the path becomes more rugged, leading to other formations like Double O Arch and Private Arch. Some sections require scrambling over rock, adding a bit of adventure trip to the experience.

Fiery Furnace

Unlike trails that lead straight to arches, the Fiery Furnace is a maze of narrow canyons and towering rock walls. The best way to explore is through a guided tour, where park rangers lead small groups through the maze and sharing details about the region. A special permit is required if you want to explore on your own, since it’s easy to get lost without a clear route. Walking through the Fiery Furnace means squeezing through tight spaces and climbing over boulders. The name comes from the way the rocks glow in the sunlight, especially in the afternoon when deep reds and oranges stand out.

Park Avenue

The trail through Park Avenue is about a mile long and it’s one of the first major sights visitors see when entering the park. The towering rock formations line both sides of a wide, open canyon, creating a view that looks like a city skyline made from stone. Starting at the viewpoint, the area stretches far into the distance, showing off the deep red walls and massive rock structures. Walking down the trail, visitors get closer to formations like the Courthouse Towers, which rise high above the desert floor. The smooth rock faces and sharp cliffs make the area scenic view, and the path is easy to follow.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Visitor Center Exhibits

The Visitor Center at Arches National Park showcase exhibits that explain the forces that shaped the arches, from wind and water to the slow movement of rock over time. One of the interesting displays covers the wildlife that lives in the desert, from lizards and birds to small mammals that make their homes in the rocky landscape. There are sections about early people who lived in the area, showing tools and artifacts from ancient cultures. Rangers are available to answer questions, and it has a short film that tells the story of Arches, showing how the park has changed over thousands of years.

Picnic Areas

In Arches National Park, the picnic areas provide shaded tables and scenic views surrounded by the beauty of the desert. One of the best places to stop is the picnic area near Balanced Rock, where tables are set up with wide views of the red cliffs. Another good spot is the Devils Garden area, giving visitors a chance to relax before or after hiking through some of the park’s longest trails. Some picnic sites have access to restrooms, making them convenient for families or those spending some hours in the park. Since there are no restaurants inside the park, bringing food and water is important.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Arches National Park offers a unique way to explore the desert landscape, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the park at a slower pace. Horses, mules, and burros are permitted in certain areas, but there are restrictions on where they can go. Riders can travel through roadless areas like Salt Wash, Courthouse Wash, and Seven Mile Canyon, staying within the wash bottoms to protect the land. Some four-wheel-drive roads, including Willow Springs Road and Cache Valley Road, also allow horseback riding, making it possible to reach scenic spots without hiking.

Ranger-led Programs

In Arches National Park, ranger-led programs provide visitors a chance to learn more about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife from experts who know the land well. These activities run from spring through fall, with options varying by season. One of the most popular programs is the Fiery Furnace guided hike, which takes visitors through a maze of narrow canyons and rock formations. This hike is challenging and requires advance reservations, but it offers a rare experience that few places in the park can match.

The Patio Talk at the visitor center provides a quick 10 minutes overview of key park features. The Guided Walk in the Windows Section is another great option, lasting about 45 to 60 minutes and covering a one mile trail with some uneven terrain. Visitors can also attend Evening Programs at the Devils Garden Campground Amphitheater, where rangers share stories about the park’s natural and cultural history. Occasionally, special events such as stargazing nights allow visitors to see the night sky with telescopes and learn about astronomy.

Scenic Drives

The Scenic drives in Arches National Park are one of the easiest ways to enjoy the desert landscapes and rock formations. The main road through the park stretches for about 18 miles, offering access to viewpoints, hiking trails, and some of the most stunning arches in the area. One of the best stops along the way is Park Avenue, where tall sandstone walls create a skyline-like view. The Windows Section provides incredible views with large rock openings framing the desert region. Driving deeper into the park leads to Devils Garden, home to Landscape Arch and other impressive formations.

Courthouse Towers

The Courthouse Towers is one of the first major sights visitors see when driving into the park. The large sandstone cliffs stand side by side, creating a dramatic view against the open sky. Walking along the short trail at the base of the formations lets visitors take in the details of the rock, shaped by years of wind and water erosion. Some of the most recognizable formations here include The Three Gossips, Sheep Rock, and Tower of Babel, each with unique shapes that add to the beauty of the area. Since it is close to the main road, it’s an easy and rewarding stop for anyone exploring Arches.

La Sal Mountains Viewpoint

The La Sal Mountains Viewpoint offers one of the most stunning panoramic views in the area. Sitting along the main road, this stop gives visitors a wide look at the desert stretching toward the distant La Sal Mountains. The contrast between the red rock formations and the snow-capped peaks makes the scene unforgettable. Looking out, visitors can see famous rock features like Courthouse Towers and Balanced Rock standing tall against the landscape. Photographers love this spot, as it provides one of the best places to capture the scenery of Utah’s desert and mountains in a single frame.

Camping Sites

The only campground inside the park is Devils Garden Campground, located at the end of the scenic drive, featuring 51 campsites for tents, RVs, and groups. Reservations are required during peak seasons, especially from March to October, as demand is high. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring, though visitors must bring their own firewood, as collecting wood in the park is prohibited. Staying overnight offers a peaceful experience, away from daytime crowds. Those unable to secure a spot inside the park can find campgrounds near Moab, where tent and RV sites are available.

5. Natural Attractions

Parade of Elephants

The Parade of Elephants is a unique rock formation that looks just like a group of elephants walking in a line. The shape of the sandstone has been carved over time by wind and water, creating massive rounded forms that resemble the bodies and trunks of elephants. This formation sits near Double Arch, making it an easy spot to find while exploring the area. Walking around it gives different views, showing how nature has shaped the rock into something that looks almost alive. The formation stands tall against the desert landscape, adding to the park’s collection of interesting rock features.

Tower of Babel

The Tower of Babel standing tall with its sandstone walls rising from the desert floor. The formation looks like an ancient tower, shaped by years of erosion and weathering. Its massive size makes it a striking landmark, visible from the road or nearby trails like Park Avenue. The best time to see it is early morning or late afternoon, when the sunlight reflect on the rock. Though there is no direct trail leading to it, visitors often stop to take in the view or snap photos of its towering presence. The nearby Courthouse Towers add to the beauty, creating a collection of impressive rock structures.

South and North Window Arches

The South and North Window Arches are two of the most impressive rock formations, sitting side by side in the Windows Section. The short and easy trail leading to them makes this a popular stop, allowing visitors to see massive openings in the sandstone without much effort. The arches resemble giant windows, framing the desert landscape beyond in a dramatic way. Walking up to North Window, visitors can stand right underneath, experiencing the size and scale of the rock overhead. South Window sits slightly higher, giving it a different shape while maintaining the breathtaking view.

Partition Arch

The Partition Arch is a beautiful and less crowded spot, sitting along the trail to Landscape Arch. The hike to reach it is not too difficult, though it does require a little extra effort compared to some of the park’s shorter trails. Once arrived, at the first sight visitors see how it frames the desert and distant hills that makes you feels like looking through a window into the landscape beyond. The arch has a wide opening, making it different from other formations in the park. Standing below the arch, the open space gives a peaceful feeling, with the quiet desert stretching out beyond the rocks.

Pine Tree Arch

The Pine Tree Arch is located in a way along the Devils Garden trail. The short and easy hike making it a great stop for visitors. As the name suggests, the arch has a few small pine trees growing nearby, adding a bit of greenery to the desert landscape. The path leading to it is well-marked, passing through sandy terrain and small rock slopes. Since it’s not as busy as some of the famous arches in the park, the area allowing visitors to enjoy the quiet surroundings. Standing under the arch, visitors get a clear idea of its size and shape, seeing how the sandstone has been slowly carved over time.

Tunnel Arch

The Tunnel Arch sits along the Devils Garden Trail, making it an easy stop for visitors heading toward Landscape Arch or other formations in the area. The arch is set high in the rock, giving it the look of a tunnel, with its curved shape standing out against the cliffs behind it. The short hike to reach the viewpoint is easy, passing through sandy terrain and desert plants along the way. Since the arch is not at ground level, visitors view it from a distance rather than walking underneath. The best time to see it is in the morning or afternoon when the shadows make the shape stand out more clearly.

How to Reach Arches National Park

Arches National Park is easily accessible, with Canyonlands Field Airport (CNY) located just 18 miles away, offering flights from Denver and Salt Lake City. Most visitors prefer flying into Grand Junction or Salt Lake City for more flight options, with Salt Lake City being about 230 miles from the park. If driving, the park is well-connected by highways, with the most common route from Salt Lake City taking about 4 hours via I-15 South, US-6 East, and US-191 South, a scenic drive that enhances the journey.

Those coming from Denver can take I-70 West before connecting to US-191 South, reaching the park in about 5 hours. Grand Junction, located 2 hours away, provides another easy entry point via I-70 and US-191 South. Moab, the nearest town, offers a straightforward path to the entrance, just a short drive north along US-191. Since no public transportation reaches the park directly, renting a car is the best way to explore, with the scenic drive inside Arches being well-marked and simple to follow.

Local Transportation

Arches National Park does not have a public transport system, so visitors must rely on their own vehicles or rental cars to explore the park. The main road is paved and easy to follow, stretching about 18 miles from the entrance to Devils Garden, with several pull-offs along the way for viewpoints and trailheads. Parking is available at major attractions, but lots can fill up quickly during busy seasons, especially in spring and summer. Bicycles are allowed on roads but not on hiking trails, making cycling another option for getting around.

Visitors looking for guided tours can book trips from Moab, where many companies offer shuttle services and bus tours to help people explore the park without needing their own car. Packing enough water, snacks, and fuel is important, as there are no gas stations inside the park. Road conditions are usually good, but occasional closures can happen due to weather, so checking updates before arrival is helpful. Since the shuttle system is limited, planning ahead ensures a smoother visit and helps make the most of the time spent among the rock formations.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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