Carved by the forces of erosion over millions of years, Arches National Park is a geological wonderland located in southeastern Utah. With over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, soaring fins, and deep canyons, Arches offers a breathtaking landscape that is sure to inspire awe in visitors. While there are many ways to experience the park, here are 12 of the best things to do in Arches National Park in 2024.
Hike to Delicate Arch
Perhaps the most iconic landmark in Arches National Park, Delicate Arch is a freestanding sandstone arch that stands 65 feet tall. The hike to the arch is a 3-mile round-trip from the Delicate Arch trailhead, and it gains about 500 feet in elevation. While the hike is considered to be moderate in difficulty, it is important to be prepared for the heat and sun, especially during the summer months.
Explore Windows Section
The Windows Section of Arches National Park is home to a series of huge natural sandstone arches, including the North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. The Windows Loop Trail is a 1-mile loop trail that takes visitors past all of these arches, and it is a great way to see the highlights of the Windows Section. The trail is relatively flat and easy to walk, making it a good option for families with young children.
Go Canyoneering
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, canyoneering is a great way to explore the hidden canyons of Arches National Park. Canyoneering involves hiking, scrambling, and rappelling through narrow canyons, and it is a great way to see the park from a different perspective. There are a number of different canyoneering routes available in Arches National Park, ranging from easy to difficult. It is important to be prepared for the heat and sun, and to have the proper equipment and experience before attempting a canyoneering route.
Visit the Fiery Furnace
The Fiery Furnace is a labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons and arches that is located in the heart of Arches National Park. The Fiery Furnace is only accessible by permit, and guided tours are available through the park service. The hike through the Fiery Furnace is a challenging one, but it is also a unique and unforgettable experience.
Drive the Arches Scenic Drive
The Arches Scenic Drive is a 18-mile loop road that takes visitors past many of the park’s most popular attractions, including Balanced Rock, Courthouse Towers, and The Three Gossips. The drive is a great way to get an overview of the park, and it is also a good option for those who are short on time. There are a number of pullouts along the way where visitors can stop and take pictures or go for a short hike.
Go Stargazing
Arches National Park is one of the best places in the world to go stargazing. The park’s remote location and lack of light pollution make it possible to see millions of stars on a clear night. The best time to go stargazing in Arches National Park is during the summer months, when the Milky Way is visible overhead. There are a number of designated stargazing areas in the park, and visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket or chair and lie down to enjoy the view.
Attend a Ranger Program
The park rangers at Arches National Park offer a variety of ranger programs throughout the year, including guided hikes, talks, and evening programs. These programs are a great way to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history, and they are also a good way to meet other visitors. The ranger programs are free to attend, and they are offered at a variety of times and locations throughout the park.
Visit the Arches National Park Visitor Center
The Arches National Park Visitor Center is a good place to start your visit to the park. The visitor center has exhibits on the park’s geology, natural history, and cultural history, and it also has a gift shop and a bookstore. The visitor center is located just outside the park entrance, and it is open daily from 8:00am to 5:00pm.
Go Rock Climbing
Arches National Park is a world-renowned rock climbing destination. The park’s sandstone cliffs offer a variety of climbing routes for climbers of all levels. There are a number of guide services that offer guided climbing tours, and there are also a number of self-guiding climbing routes available. It is important to be aware of the park’s climbing regulations before attempting to climb any of the cliffs.
Go Camping
There are two campgrounds in Arches National Park: Devils Garden Campground and Fiery Furnace Campground. Devils Garden Campground is the larger of the two campgrounds, and it offers a variety of campsites, including both tent and RV sites. Fiery Furnace Campground is a smaller campground that is located in the heart of the park. The campground offers both tent and RV sites, and it is also home to a number of yurts that are available for rent.
Culture in Arches National Park
The history of Arches National Park dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating back to the Archaic period. The first Europeans to visit the area were Spanish explorers in the 18th century, and they were followed by Mormon settlers in the 19th century. Arches National Park was established in 1929, and it has been a popular tourist destination ever since.
The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, and a variety of birds. The park is also home to a number of cultural resources, including rock art, granaries, and other structures that were built by the park’s former inhabitants.
Best Months to Visit Arches National Park
The best time to visit Arches National Park is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. The summer months can be very hot, and the winter months can be very cold. However, the park is open year-round, and there are activities to enjoy in every season.
Nearby Transportation to Arches National Park
Arches National Park is located in southeastern Utah, and the closest major airport is Canyonlands Field Airport in Moab, Utah. The airport is served by a number of major airlines, and it is a convenient way to get to the park. There are also a number of shuttle services that operate between the airport and the park.
Local Food Near Arches National Park
There are a number of restaurants located in the town of Moab, Utah, which is just outside the park entrance. The restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, including American, Mexican, and Italian. There are also a number of grocery stores in Moab where visitors can purchase food and supplies.
Best Hotels Near Arches National Park
There are a number of hotels located in the town of Moab, Utah, which is just outside the park entrance. The hotels offer a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants. Visitors can also find a number of vacation rentals in the Moab area, including cabins, condos, and houses.
Conclusion
Arches National Park is a truly unique and unforgettable place. With its stunning scenery, abundance of activities, and rich cultural history, the park is a must-visit for anyone who loves the outdoors. Whether you are looking for a challenging hike, a relaxing stargazing session, or a family-friendly adventure, Arches National Park has something to offer everyone. 12 Things To Do in Arches National Park 2024