Arches National Park in Utah features over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including Delicate Arch. Highlights include hiking trails, Double Arch, and Landscape Arch.
Arches National Park in eastern Utah features over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. Known for its striking red rock formations that date back millions of years, the park offers a variety of hiking trails, viewpoints, and geological wonders like the Double Arch and Landscape Arch.
One of the standout attractions in Arches National Park is the iconic Delicate Arch. This freestanding arch has become a symbol of Utah and is accessible via a moderately challenging 3-mile round trip hike. Another must-see formation is Double Arch, located in the Windows Section of the park. This area also features North and South Window Arches and Turret Arch, which are easily accessible via short trails. Landscape Arch in the Devil's Garden area is one of the park's longest arches and can be reached by a relatively easy hike.
The park’s unique red rock formations are primarily composed of Entrada Sandstone, which eroded over millions of years to create the arches and other geological wonders. The high-desert ecosystem supports a range of plant life including junipers, pinyon pines, and various desert shrubs. Wildlife such as mule deer, ravens, and lizards are commonly sighted in the park.
Best Hiking Trails
The Devil's Garden Trail offers several options. The full loop covers nearly 7.2 miles and passes by multiple arches including Tunnel Arch, Pine Tree Arch, and Landscape Arch. For a shorter hike, consider the Balanced Rock Trail, a 0.3-mile loop that takes you around the base of the park’s famous Balanced Rock formation.
How to Get There and How to Get Around
Arches National Park is located near Moab, Utah. To reach the park, you can fly into Salt Lake City International Airport or Grand Junction Regional Airport in Colorado, both of which are within driving distance. Renting a car is necessary for getting around, as there are no public transportation options within the park. The main road through Arches provides access to most major trailheads and viewpoints.
Tips for Photography
Photographers will find plenty of opportunities to capture stunning images. Sunrise and sunset are particularly good times for photography due to the dramatic lighting on the red rock formations. Popular spots include Delicate Arch at sunset and Turret Arch through the North Window at sunrise for a unique framing shot.
Best Times to Visit
The best times to visit Arches National Park are during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when temperatures are cooler. Summers can be extremely hot, reaching over 100°F (38°C), while winters are generally cold but with fewer crowds.
