21 Best Things to Do in Arches National Park in 2024 (Best Arches, Hikes + Tours)

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LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ARCHES NATIONAL PARK?

You’re in the right place! We have spent months traveling around Southern Utah, logging some serious hours in Arches. We’ve put together a guide with helpful tips and details to help you best enjoy the top things to do in Arches National Park.

Pulling from our experience and insight, you will know which arches are worth seeing, which hikes are most family-friendly, and which tours not to miss!

There are many places to go in Arches National Park that will pique the interest of everyone. We love to visit and explore the many fun things to do in Arches National Park, even if we have done them before. You will enjoy going back many times to explore the abundance of the Arches National Park activities.

If you are looking to learn what to see at Arches National Park or where to go in Arches National Park, you have come to the right place. Visiting Arches is one of our favorite things to do in Moab. Stay safe, and make sure you bring plenty of water to all of your activities while in the park and the surrounding area.

If you’re going to be visiting Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, we recommend purchasing the America the Beautiful pass before your visit. It is an awesome pass that more than pays for itself if you are visiting at least three federally managed properties a year.

America the Beautiful

Best Things to Do in Arches National Park

1. Arches scenic drive

Scenic view in Arches National Park

Arches is a great place for a scenic drive. This is because there are a number of arches that can be seen from the road, and there are some great formations you can see on your drive. While we were driving through the park, our kids decided they wanted to count all the arches they could see.

This was pretty fun, and they enjoyed trying to see arches in the distance and on the different rock formations as we drove by.

2. Park avenue viewpoint

The Park Avenue Viewpoint is one of the easiest things to do in Arches National Park

The Park Avenue Viewpoint is going to be your first stop. The viewpoint is only a few miles away from the Visitor Center. From this viewpoint, there is a nice parking area and a nice hike.

The hike is about 2 miles and takes most people about an hour to complete. If you hike the trail, you will get to the Courthouse Towers Viewpoint.

Much of this hike is paved, but there is a section of steep stairs and an uneven trail. If you do not want to hike on a steep section of stairs, then you will need to start at the north side of the trail. At the parking lot, you will be able to see Park Avenue Arch.

The arch is high on one of the rock sections, but you will not see light coming through from this viewpoint.

3. La Sal Mountains Viewpoint

View from the La Sal Mountain Viewpoint

The La Sal Mountain Viewpoint is a great location for sunset and sunrise. From this view, you will be able to see the La Sal Mountains behind some red rock formations. You will be able to get out and walk along the sidewalk or a small bench area.

From this viewpoint, you can see some of the formations that make up the Courthouse towers. You can see Balanced Rock, and in the distance, the portion of the park known as the Windows.

4. Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock is one of the easiest things to do in Arches National Park with kids

Balanced Rock is a very popular stop in Arches National Park. At Balanced Rock, you will find a parking lot with a one-way loop. There is a short trail that takes you around the Balanced Rock so you can see it close and a 360-degree view.

This is a great place for kids as there are no steep staircases and plenty of rocks to climb on.

As erosion continues, this rock will eventually fall, just as a smaller balancing rock formation fell in 1975. This formation was called Chip Off The Old Block. For some sweet then-and-now pictures, check out these amazing photos from the national park website.

These pictures will show you how erosion has changed some of the park over time.

5. Delicate Arch

Hiking to Delicate Arch is one of the most popular things to do in Arches National Park

Delicate Arch is the most famous arch and popular Arches National Park attraction. Many park visitors will frequent this formation time and time again to see its beauty. People will visit this arch day and night to see this great arch among the stars and more.

We loved exploring this Moab hiking trail, and it was just the right amount of difficulty to offer a nice workout for our 7-year-old twins and ourselves. The hike does not provide any shade, so even on a day that is not overly hot, you will get sweaty, and you will need water, so be prepared.

The dry desert heat will dehydrate you quickly.

If you do not want to make the hike or are unable to make the hike, there is a viewpoint past the trailhead where you can see the arch in the distance. However, if you can make the hike to get up close, you should do it.

Hiking trail leading to Delicate Arch

On busy days the park rangers will put up signs stating the Delicate Arch Trailhead parking area is full, but you will still want to drive through the parking lot for open spots.

Even though these signs were up when we were visiting, when we drove through, there were multiple open spaces.

6. Upper and Lower Delicate Arch viewpoints

Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint

The Delicate Arch hike is a moderately challenging hike, so if you do not have the time or are unable to hike to the arch, you can view the arch from a distance. The viewpoints are relatively easy to get to, and the lower viewpoint is wheelchair accessible.

The lower viewpoint has no elevation change and is an easy 5 to 10-minute walk from the parking area. You can see the arch without going all the way to the parking area if you don’t want to make the short walk. The Upper Viewpoint is about a half a mile round trip will almost 200 feet of elevation change.

The hike is relatively easy for most people, but because of the elevation change, it does take some effort and will typically take 30 min to 1 hour round trip. If you are looking for a parking spot to hike Delicate Arch many times, people will park at this viewpoint and walk to the Delicate Arch Trailhead, but this is not ideal because it does add some distance to your total hike.

We drove through this parking area once as we waited for a parking spot to open at the Delicate Arch Trailhead.

7. Biking

Views from the scenic drive in Arches National Park

Biking through Arches National Park is a great way to see the beautiful sights that Arches offers. It is legal to bike on all of the paved and dirt roads, but you cannot bike on trails or go off of the roads. This includes e-bikes.

E-bikes are a great and fun way to get around on a bicycle if you are looking for something different or want the ability to make your biking adventure more or less challenging.

Mountain biking is a big deal in the Moab area, with many trails being open just for mountain biking. There are even some trails where you can spend multiple days biking and camping. However, remember to stay on the roads.

8. Camping at Devil’s Garden

Camping, one of the fun things to do in Arches National Park

Devil’s Garden Campground is the only campground inside Arches National Park. This campground offers 51 campsites and is typically full from the spring to the fall. Many people enjoy staying in the campground because it gives you direct access without the need to travel in and out of the park.

If you are interested in camping at the Devil’s Garden, make sure you book your site as early as possible. You can book your site 6 months in advance at recreation.gov.

9. Photography

Scenic photograph of Arches National Park

Photography is going to be one of the many very popular activities in Arches National Parks. You will see amateur to professional photographers taking pictures inside the park. The park offers some great backgrounds and viewpoints to take amazing pictures.

Many people enjoy taking stargazing pictures as well as sunset and sunrise pictures. However, often times if you are traveling with your family or others, you can still manage some really nice pictures if you are prepared.

10. Ranger Programs

My kids participating in a ranger program at Arches National Park

The ranger programs are one of our kids’ favorite activities in the Utah national parks, and this includes Arches National Park. Participating in the ranger programs like the Junior Ranger program is a great way to learn about the area.

You will learn how the area was created and how it has taken 15 million years to create the arches in the park. You will also learn how to take care of the park. This includes learning about the Cryptobiotic Soil and how it is important to the ecosystem, and how it is easily disturbed.

11. Stargazing

Stargazing at Arches National Park

Arches National Parks and the surrounding Moab area are some of the best places for stargazing, especially in the summer months. Stargazing is very popular in the summer months because, during the summer, the temperature outside at night is 70 degrees or above.

This makes hiking in the park and seeing the arches under the stars a very fun and enjoyable experience.

If you don’t feel comfortable venturing out on your own, you can take a stargazing tour. If you do go out at night, make sure you have a camera that will take good pictures at night because the night pictures of the arches and the stars are beautiful.

Stargazing is one of our favorite things to do in Moab, my kids would find constellations like Cassiopeia and Orion’s Belt every evening.

Best Arches in Arches National Park You Must See

Without a doubt, the best arch to see is Delicate Arch. We covered Delicate Arch above, so if you need more details about the hike, check it out there.

12. The Windows Area

One of the best places to see lots of fun things to do in Arches National Park is on the Windows Trail

The Windows is definitely an Arches National Park must-see. It is probably the second most popular and well-known area of Arches, only behind Delicate Arch. This section of the park is loaded with so many beautiful arches, and it does not require a lot of hiking to see them all.

Some of the famous arches that make up the Windows are North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch. You will also be able to see a few other features like the Garden of Eden, Parade of Elephants, and Elephant Butte.

Turret Arch and the North Window Arch are pretty close together. The Turret Arch is just south of North Window, and the South Window is just around the corner. If you are standing in the North Window looking south, you will see the Turret Arch.

The South Windows in Arches National Park

The Double Arch is on the opposite side of the parking lot from the North Window and the Turret Arch. You do not need to move your car to see all of these features as they are considered to be in the same parking area.

The parking area is a loop, so depending on where in the loop you parked will make a difference which arches are closer to your parking spot. You can read more about this hike in our Windows Area Hiking Guide.

13. Double Arch

Double Arch in Arches National Park

Double Arch is considered part of the Windows section of Arches. This arch is unique because there are two arches that stem from the same base, similar to if you look at your hand making a V-shape with your pointer and middle finger.

The trail to get close to the arch is another one of the easy trails and can be accessible by a wheelchair with assistance. The ground is hardpacked, but it is not the most even trail. You will have uneven surfaces with dips and bumps along the way.

14. Skyline Arch

Skyline Arch is one of the best things to do in Arches National Park

Skyline Arch is a fun and easy arch to hike to because it is a shorter hike that is under half a mile long, and you can get to the arch in about 20 minutes. What we liked about this arch is there are lots of rocks to climb on around the base of the arch. The trail is not something you will want to take a wheelchair on, but if you go to the backside, there is a paved path to the arch.

You get to the paved path by driving to the campground amphitheater. From this amphitheater, you will find a paved path that is easy to take a stroller or wheelchair on.

The arch is not at ground level, and you may see people climbing inside and around the base of the arch. We enjoyed climbing around the arch but be careful because it is a ways off the ground.

15. Sand Dune Arch

Sand dune arch is one of the best things to do in Moab with kids

Sand Dune Arch is probably the most kid-friendly arch in the park and one of our favorite things to do in Moab with kids. We say it is the most kid-friendly for multiple different reasons. The hike is short, which is great for younger kids. The hike is also inside a small slot canyon.

This means that on a hot day, you are shaded for a good portion of your hike. The arch itself is inside the slot canyon, so you can sit next to the arch and find some shade while the kids play in the sand.

Our kids loved playing in the sand while we waited for a turn to take pictures and climb around the arch. Do keep in mind this arch is popular, so there is a very good chance you will not be the only family looking at the arch.

My family playing at Sand Dune Arch

Take your time and be prepared to sit for a minute if you are wanting to take a picture with the arch. You can read more about our experience in our Guide to Sand Dune Arch.

We always have food and water with us. There is nothing that can kibosh a nice trip or hike more than hungry and thirsty kids.

16. Broken arch

Broken Arch in Arches National Park

Broken Arch is another arch that takes a little bit of a hike to get to it. There are two different ways to get to this arch. You can get there from the Sand Dune Arch. This is probably the best way to get to Broken Arch because the round trip is only 1.2 miles, and if you are already going to Sand Dune Arch, you will already be headed in that direction.

This hike is considered an easy hike, with only about 50 feet of elevation change.

If you want to take a little more challenging route to get to the arch, you can take the Broken Arch Loop Trail. This trail is just under 2.5 miles long with about 50 feet of elevation change. There is also a little bit of scrambling along rocks on this trail.

You can expect to see some pinion and Juniper trees around Broken Arch. This is also a great area to look for wildlife.

17. Tapestry arch

The Tapestry Arch can be reached from the Devil’s Garden Area. The arch is not difficult to get to, and the hike is considered easy, with a round trip being just over half a mile long. You will start on the Broken Arch Trail, and less than a quarter mile in, you will go northeast towards Tapestry Arch.

It is a congregation of three arches, as some will call it, a triple arch, but this is incorrect. Each arch is its own arch and is not considered a triple arch.

Hiking to the Arches in Arches National Park

18. Pine Tree Arch and Tunnel Arch

The Pine Tree Arch and the Tunnel Arch are two arches that are not too far from each other that are in the Devil’s Garden. These two arches are a little less frequented because visitors often don’t take the extra time to see these arches but just opt to see the Landscape Arch.

If you are hiking to Landscape Arch, these arches will only add an additional half mile to your hike, and most everyone is glad when they add these to their hikes.

19. Tower Arch

Tower Arch is another quieter arch as it is located in an area that tends to get a little less traffic. The arch is pretty cool, but it does require driving 8 miles on unpaved roads. Once you get to the trailhead, the hike is just over 2.5 miles round trip with an elevation change of 300 feet, making this a moderately challenging arch to get to.

This is one of the best arches to hike to if you are wanting to have a bit more peace and quiet. Arches can get super busy during certain times of the year, and if you want to take a day to visit some areas that do not get frequented as much, this arch should be on your list.

20. Double O Arch

The Double O Arch is another great arch in the Devil’s Garden Area. It is also the second largest arch when comparing the arches that are in the Devil’s Garden. The largest arch is Landscape Arch. To get to Double Arch, you will continue past Landscape Arch.

The hike to this arch adds some difficulty to your hike. After you pass Landscape Arch, the trail becomes more challenging. To get to this arch, your hike will be just over 4 miles, and it is considered a moderately challenging hike.

Best Arches National Park Tours

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

21. Arches National Park 4×4 Tour

A 4×4 tour is a great way to see parts of Arches National Park that are less busy and less frequented by park visitors. This is because not everyone has access to an off-highway vehicle or is willing to take a 4×4 tour. There are multiple benefits of taking the 4×4 roads in Arches.

This can be from either a tour, from your own jeep, or from a jeep rental. All three are great options.

The park entrance at Arches can get very congested; by taking a 4×4 tour or the 4×4 roads into the park, you can bypass this traffic, and it won’t add much time to your trip if the entrance line is long.

It is also the best way to get away from some crowds and to explore where others are less likely to be. This is a great way to explore the park if you have already been before but want to check out parts you have not seen.

➡️ BOOK Arches 4×4 Tour

If you enjoy the 4×4 trails in Arches, there are lots of other great off-road trails in Moab. Some of our favorites are Hell’s Revenge, Poison Spider, and Fins and Things.

Arches National Park Hikes

There are so many great hikes in Arches National Park. Many of the hikes have been covered above in the section discussing the best arches in the park. Here are some additional hikes that may not be focused on seeing one of the arches.

My family enjoying the hiking trails in Arches National Park

22. Fiery furnace

Fiery Furnace is a very unique hiking trail in Arches and is one of the best spots in Arches National Park to explore. This is because it requires an individual hiking permit, or you must go on a ranger-guided tour.

The park provides these tours because the hike is super fun, but it is not the easiest to traverse. The park actually recommends you take one guided tour through the Fiery Furnace before you go on your own. However, this is not a requirement.

You should have your phone or GPS device available in case you need some help finding the correct path, but even with these, there is a good chance you take a wrong turn or five if you have not done the trail before.

The hike is a loop, but there are multiple “dead ends” that lead to some fantastic sights, so if you do the loop, don’t bypass those sections. It is a little more than two miles with almost 500 feet of elevation gain.

The hike also will require scrambling over rocks. Because of the rock scrambling and some of the ledges, it is recommended by the national park that kids under 5 years old don’t do this hike.

For more information on the Fiery Furnace and getting a permit, check out the national park service website here.

23. Hike to Landscape Arch

My family at Landscape Arch

We have addressed a little bit about the Landscape Arch in some of the other arches and hike descriptions because if you are hiking around the Devil’s Garden area, you will undoubtedly hike past Landscape Arch. It is one of the most frequented arches in that area.

The hike to the arch is not overly challenging, but it is a nice trail. If you want something more challenging, you can continue your hike to one of the many other arches in the Devil’s Garden.

One fun section of this hike is towards the beginning. There is a small canyon on the left side of the trail that is full of sand. This is a great place to let the kids play. We had the kids play there at the end so as to not tire them out before we got very far into the hike.

Make sure to be careful around this area as sometimes there are rocks at the bottom of the sand area and canyon, and people can trip over these rocks. While we were there, a lady tripped on one and hit her head. Luckily she was ok, but we all were a little surprised it did not end worse.

Hiking is one of the best things to do in Arches National Park

Things to Do in Arches National Park in Winter

Arches does not have many, if any, winter-specific activities. Many, if not most, of the things you would do throughout the year you can do in the winter. The main thing you should be aware of is if there is snow.

If there is snow or there has been a lot of rain in the area recently, then some areas can close. The Fiery Furnace hike will close depending on the weather because it can become dangerous when snow is on the ground.

During the winter, you should still go on hikes and visit the arches. The hikes can be great during the winter because there will be way fewer people, and you do not have to hike in the extreme heat the area will experience in the summer.

Delicate Arch is a great hike to take in the winter because it can be a very sweat-filled and more difficult hike when it is hot, and you are in full sun.

Map of Things to Do in Arches National Park

Is Arches National Park Worth Visiting?

Yes, Arches National Park should be on the top of your list of places to visit if not on your bucket list. This is because the park and the area have so much to offer. Moab, which is only 10 minutes away from Arches, is considered the adventure capital of America.

There is so much to do in this area. You can spend months exploring all it has to offer.

You have two very different national parks within 30 minutes of each other and Moab, which has the Sand Flatts Recreation Area and surrounding off-road and mountain biking trails. Arches and the surrounding area are a must.

Hiking in Moab, Utah

What to do in Arches National Park in One Day

There are many things to do in Arches National Park in one day. What you do on that day can vary depending on your physical ability and what you are looking for.

Many of the arches are fairly close to the road, or you can hike to them and turn around without completing the entire trail in order to save time. If you only have one day, we would try to do these activities.

If you have not hiked to Delicate Arch, then Delicate Arch is a must-see in Arches National Park. It is a fun and moderately challenging hike to arguably the best arch in the park. After Delicate Arch, the Windows area and the Devil’s Garden are fantastic places to visit. You can spend more or less time at each of those spots depending on how much hiking you want to do.

The Devil’s Garden will require some hiking to get to many of the arches, but the Windows area does not require as much hiking because there is a lot to see in the area of the windows. You won’t see all of it without getting out and walking around because the area is not small.

If you still have time, you can check out Tapestry Arch and Sand Dune Arch. Both are relatively easy to get to and great places to explore. Arches is a national park that you can easily spend more than one day exploring, but if you only have one day, it is still worth a visit.

One of the arches in Arches National Park

Arches National Park Timed Entry

From April to October, Arches has a timed entry system. This is because the park can become crowded at different times of the day.

The timed entry system creates a more even flow of traffic to help prevent significant traffic and waits at the more popular areas like Delicate Arch.

If you are unable to get a timed entry when you are there, you can go before 7 am or after 4 pm. This means by going earlier or later, you don’t have to use the timed entry program.

Where to Stay Near arches national park

There are many great hotels near Arches as well as great hotels near Canyonlands National Park. The closest city to stay at for both of these national parks in Moab. Here are some of our favorite hotels in Moab.

ENTRADA AT MOAB TOWNHOMES (LUXURY)

Entrada at Moab Townhomes is one of the best accommodations near Arches National Park in Utah

If you’re looking for luxury hotels near Arches National Park where the whole family can stay, Entrada at Moab Townhomes is the place. These townhomes are a great option for large groups. They can accommodate anywhere from 12 to 50 people. 

These townhomes are conveniently located in Moab, minutes from the entrance to Arches. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a fully stocked kitchen, and a coffee bar in each townhome. The kids also have entertainment, as each townhome includes kids’ toys, books, and games. 

You won’t find something more comfortable – a home away from home. 

➡️ Check Rates & Book: Entrada at Moab Townhomes

ENTRADA AT MOAB TOWNHOMES REVIEWS (4.7/5 STARS)

We loved being right by the pool. We loved that it was fully stocked! Everything was organized and clean. Check out was simple. None of us wanted to go home after 4 nights!!! Some lights by the pool weren’t working so it was a little difficult to see when swimming at night. We will definitely return!!!! – Keri (Expedia Review)

➡️ Check Rates & Book: Entrada at Moab Townhomes

HOW TO GET TO ENTRADA AT MOAB 

📍Entrada at Moab Address: 650 W 400 N, Moab, UT 84532| Google Maps | Book Entrada At Moab Now

AARCHWAY INN (BUDGET)

Aarchway Inn's beautiful outdoor pool and patio

Located on the Riverwalk, the Aarchway Inn is an amazing option. The Riverwalk is a wide, nicely shaded path along the North Fork of the Virgin River in Moab.

If you love nature walks and seeing wildlife, this may be the place for you. It is a 10-minute drive to the Arches National Park Visitor Center.

In addition to the Riverwalk, Aarchway Inn has an outdoor swimming pool and children’s pool, with sun loungers and pool umbrellas. Other amenities that make this place stand out are on-site wedding services and a free airport shuttle. They also offer a fitness center, heated pool, playground, and hot tub.

➡️ Check Rates & Book: Aarchway Inn

AARCHWAY INN REVIEWS (4.5/5 STARS)

Great property, staff was friendly, complementary breakfast was extensive and of good quality. They even supplied complementary hiking poles for guests to use. – Thomas (Expedia Review)

Exceptional value for money but make sure you have a car, otherwise, you will be trapped. I will definitely stay at the Aarchway next time I am in Moab again. – Iryna (Expedia Review)

➡️ Check Rates & Book: Aarchway Inn

HOW TO GET TO AARCHWAY INN

📍Aarchway Inn Address: 1551 N Riverview Dr, Moab, UT 84532 | Google Maps | Book Aarchway Inn Now

12. Hyatt Place Moab (Mid-range)

Outdoor patio and pool at Hyatt Place Moab, a hotel near Arches National Park

The Hyatt Place Moab, is located just north of downtown Moab in a picturesque setting of red rocks. This hotel is fairly new and is very nice and accommodating. It is also one of the closest hotels to the entrance of Arches National Park.

The pool area is awesome, with a large heated pool, hot tub, splash pad, and a small playground the kids enjoy climbing on. It offers many modern amenities, including air conditioning, premium bedding, laptop-friendly workspaces, free wi-fi, and hair dryers.

The recreational opportunities include a fitness center and a playground. The hotel also offers a free buffet breakfast with many traditional and modern food options.

Hyatt Place in Moab, Utah

This pet-friendly hotel is one we recommend for not being too expensive and offering good value while only being a mile or so away from the downtown area. We love the added touches this hotel has to add to your stay – such as the outdoor fireplace by the pool and the snack bar.

Hyatt Place Moab isn’t your cheapest option, but it’s an excellent family-friendly hotel in Moab.

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⭐Hyatt Place Moab Reviews (9.2/10 Stars)

My experience at Hyatt Place was excellent! The staff was so friendly and they were so accepting of not just myself and family but also my dog. Puppy treats were provided and in full view at the counter. Each morning, the staff provided an excellent hot breakfast. And the breakfast was different each morning. Was absolutely worth the money and I would stay again with no hesitation at all! – Travis (Expedia Reivews)

Pros: very clean and comfortable room. Close to Arches and restaurants. Complimentary breakfast. Cons: None. – Shuyi (Expedia Reviews)

➡️ Check Rates & Book Hyatt Place Moab

How to Get to Hyatt Place Moab

📍Hyatt Place Moab Address: 890 N Main St, Moab, UT 84532 | Google Maps | Book Hyatt Place Moab Now

Arches National Park Weather

The weather at Arches National Park can change quickly and drastically in a very short period of time. This means the weather one day can be sunny and 70 degrees or more; the next day it can be snowing.

Those of us who have grown up in the area know this is typical, and therefore it is smart to be prepared. You do not want to be stuck on a long hike without the proper clothing or supplies.

For updated weather information on Arches National Park, we recommend you check the national park website here. On this website, you will know if there are winter advisories, flood advisories, or any other notable information like extreme heat.

Sign for Arches National Park

Packing List for Visiting Arches National Park

Your packing list for Arches National Park can vary slightly depending on the time of year you will be visiting. In the summer, you won’t need a winter jacket, but there are some things you will need regardless of the time of year you will be visiting.

Below you will see some of our most recommended items while visiting the park. Also, be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water with you. We hiked in Arches in late October, and it was still really hot outside.

Hydro Flask

We love hydro flasks. They are great because in the summer, they will keep your water cold, and in the winter, they will keep your water from freezing into a block of ice.

There have been a number of times when we thought we had water in the car and it is frozen. Frozen water takes a lot longer to thaw than you think, especially when you are thirsty.

On the opposite side of that, we have also tried to drink 100-degree water that was in the car, and this is almost equally as bad. Keep your water insulated and keep your body happy.

SHOP Hydro Flasks

Backpack

A backpack is something we have with us no matter where we are going. It makes our hikes so much better, especially if you are hiking with kids. You will use your backpack on every trip, no matter the time of year.

We keep food, water, and other supplies in our backpacks everywhere we go. Depending on the length of your trip or the size of the party that you are with can determine the type of backpack you need.

SHOP Backpacks

Camelbak

For the minimalist who wants to have their hands free for climbing rocks or helping others climb rocks, a CamelBak is a great way to have a backpack and water combined into one.

Sometimes water bottles don’t sit that great in your backpack, and a CamelBak can be the best of both worlds. Keep a hydro flask in your car and take your CamelBak on the hike.

SHOP Camelbaks

FAQs: Things to Do in Arches National Park

What can you not miss at Arches National Park?

There are a few things you should not miss at Arches National Park. This includes Delicate Arch and The Windows. These are both amazing areas, and you should visit both on your next trip to Arches.

How much time do you need at Arches National Park?

The majority of people would be happy to see Arches on a weekend. However, depending on the weekend, the park can be very busy, making everything take longer and go slow, so in general, give yourself 2 to 3 days to see the park.

You can see it in a day, but you might not see everything that you want to see. We spent two days in the park and were pretty happy with our experience, but it was not busy.

My family at the Arches National Park sign

What else is there to do around Arches National Park?

There are so many things to do around arches national park, and it is why this area is so great. The area around Arches National Park is loaded with fun for outdoor enthusiasts. You can visit Canyonlands National Park, which is only 30 minutes from Arches.

The city of Moab is only 10 minutes from the park, and it is famous for outdoor activities like off-road trails and mountain bike trails. Only a few minutes from the downtown Moab area, you have the Sand Flatts Recreation Area, which is full of off-highway biking and off-road trails.

There are also great arches like Jeep Arch and Corona Arch that are not inside the national park.

If you don’t have an off-highway vehicle, you can rent one or take a tour of many of the nearby exciting trails.

Double Arch in Arches National Park

Which is better to see Canyonlands or Arches?

When comparing Arches vs Canyonlands, Arches is better for most people. Canyonlands is still fun, but the scenery is different, and it has more camping and off-road options than Arches.

If you have time, make sure you either go on a jeep tour or take your own 4×4 vehicle down the White Rim Road and Shafer Trail in Canyonlands.

How long does it take to drive through Arches National Park?

If you are just going to drive through Arches and not get out of your car, you can do it in a couple of hours. If you are going to get out at a few overlooks and maybe walk around the arches near the roads, you could drive through in a half day.

Scenic view of an arch

Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Arches National Park

There are many great things to do at Arches National Park. It does not matter if you are looking for things to do in Arches National Park in April or any of the other spring, winter, or fall months; Arches and the surrounding area is a fun and exciting place.

Hopefully, you will be able to explore this majestic part of North America. It will not matter if it is your first time or you lost count of how often you visit you will enjoy these activities and many more.

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