In eastern Utah, Arches National Park offers a breathtaking landscape that must be experienced firsthand. With over 2,000 arch-shaped rock formations, towering spires, and sweeping hills, it’s one of the most iconic and beautiful national parks in the U.S. Each year, it attracts more than a million visitors, mostly sticking close to the roads and parking areas. However, if you explore the park’s more than 119 square miles, you’ll discover a wealth of unique and interesting sights to enjoy. Here are our top ten recommendations for things to see and do in Arches National Park:
The park’s most renowned rock formation is Delicate Arch. It’s arguably the most famous arch globally and even appears on Utah’s license plate. You can view Delicate Arch from the 0.5-mile Delicate Arch Viewpoints trail, which shares its name. The accessible walk is worth it for the impressive views along the route. For a more challenging option, the 3-mile Delicate Arch trail takes hikers right to the arch.
Arches Scenic Drive, the main road through the park, stretches 18 miles, showcasing some of the most stunning landscapes within Arches. Along this route, you’ll see many of the park’s signature rock formations, and there are several trailheads nearby if you’re looking to take a stroll.
The Fiery Furnace is a narrow, winding area filled with twisting passageways, making it one of the park’s unique spots. Visitors can join a guided tour led by a park ranger or get a permit to explore this maze-like area themselves. The site is especially magical at sunrise and sunset.
Like many national parks, Arches allows camping, but there’s only one campground available, so reservations are recommended. The Devils Garden Campground offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature, with spectacular views of rock formations and the night sky. It’s also close to numerous hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and other attractions. The campground has 51 individual sites, each accommodating up to 10 people, at $25 per night.
While Arches is a fantastic place for cycling, riders must stay on the roads. Salt Valley and Willow Springs Road are particularly great for biking, providing a mix of exercise and access to stunning views. Although mountain biking trails are not available within the park, nearby Moab offers excellent opportunities.
Although off-road biking isn’t allowed, horses are welcomed in the backcountry. For those who enjoy horseback riding, there are many delightful trails to explore. Currently, overnight horse-camping isn’t permitted, but you can spend your day riding through landscapes reminiscent of classic Western films.
Arches boasts plenty of excellent hiking, although some trails may be challenging for certain visitors. The Park Avenue Trail offers an easier hike with spectacular scenery, running through a canyon for just one mile.
If you love photography, Arches provides countless opportunities to capture stunning images. With its incredible landscapes, dramatic light, and vivid colors, the park promises unforgettable photos. You might find yourself spending days capturing these remarkable scenes through your camera lens.
For rock climbing enthusiasts, Arches is a paradise. Most rock arches and towers are open for climbers, with some exceptions and temporary closures. There are numerous routes for both experienced climbers and beginners eager to learn the ropes.
While Arches may not have as much wildlife as Yellowstone, you can still spot fascinating animals. Many species are most active at night, so keep an eye out at dusk and dawn. You might catch a glimpse of bobcats, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, mule deer, coyotes, and eagles.
