Arches National Park: Explore Moab's Stunning Red Rock

Arches National Park, located just five miles north of Moab, is easily accessible by car. The main entrance is along U.S. Highway 191, and from there, the park’s scenic drive offers access to viewpoints, trailheads, and famous formations. 

Fees and Passes:

  • Single Vehicle Entry Fee: $30, valid for 7 days
  • Motorcycle Fee: $25, valid for 7 days
  • Individual (walking or biking): $15, valid for 7 days
  • Annual Pass: $55 for unlimited access for a year
    Note: America the Beautiful Passes are also accepted.

Timed Entry: From April to October, Arches National Park operates a timed entry reservation system to manage visitor flow. Reservations can be made in advance through Recreation.gov, allowing you to plan your visit with ease.

Check the website because the park is trying a new system once again which gives different types of timed entries during the heat of  summer

Arches National Park in Moab, Utah

Highlights of Arches National Park

Arches National Park is famous for its stunning natural rock formations, including over 2,000 documented arches, towering spires, balancing rocks, and massive fins. Here are some must-see highlights:

 

Arches Moab
  1. Delicate Arch – The most iconic arch in the park (and featured on Utah’s license plates), Delicate Arch is a rewarding sight after a moderate hike.
  2. Double Arch – A unique formation near the Windows area, featuring two arches that are close together, creating a dramatic view.
  3. Balanced Rock – One of the park’s most recognizable formations, this massive rock seems to be precariously balanced on a slender column.
  4. The Windows Section – Offers several stunning arches, including North and South Window Arches and Turret Arch, all easily accessible from a single parking area.
  5. Landscape Arch – This is one of the longest arches in the world, located in the Devil’s Garden area, showcasing the park’s geological marvels.

Hiking Trails in Arches National Park

Arches National Park offers a variety of trails ranging from easy, short hikes to more challenging adventures. Here are some of the park’s top trails:

  • Delicate Arch Trail (3 miles round trip, Moderate)
    This trail takes you to the iconic Delicate Arch, passing historic petroglyphs and ending with a spectacular view. Plan for a steep incline and no shade.
  • The Windows Trail (1 mile round trip, Easy)
    Explore the North and South Windows and Turret Arch on a short, family-friendly hike with minimal elevation gain.
  • Double Arch Trail (0.5 miles round trip, Easy)
    A short, easy hike that takes you to one of the park’s largest and most accessible arches.
  • Devil’s Garden Trail (7.8 miles round trip, Difficult)
    This trail is ideal for experienced hikers, offering access to eight distinct arches, including Landscape Arch, the park’s longest. It can be hiked in sections for shorter distances.
  • Balanced Rock Trail (0.3 miles round trip, Easy)
    An easy walk around the base of Balanced Rock, great for quick photos and close-up views of this gravity-defying formation.
  • Park Avenue Trail (2 miles round trip, Moderate)
    This trail descends into a canyon lined with towering rock walls, creating a “walk between giants” effect.