16 Best Things To Do in Arches National Park

1. Landscape Arch

Natural Wonders, Free, Hiking, Sightseeing

Less than 1 hour

Landscape Arch, located in Arches National Park in Utah, is one of the most spectacular natural wonders you can explore. Spanning an impressive 306 feet, it is one of the longest natural stone arches in the world. A visit to Landscape Arch offers a variety of activities that cater to nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Hiking is the primary activity, with the Devils Garden Trailhead providing a relatively easy 1.6-mile round-trip hike to the arch. The trail is well-marked and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape and other rock formations. Photography is another popular activity; the arch’s slender, delicate structure makes for breathtaking shots, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light casts dramatic shadows. Wildlife observation is also rewarding, as the area is home to various species of birds, lizards, and small mammals. Lastly, simply taking in the serene beauty and awe-inspiring scale of Landscape Arch can be a deeply fulfilling experience.

2. Balanced Rock

Natural Wonders, Free, Hiking, Sightseeing

Less than 1 hour

Balanced Rock is one of the most iconic and easily recognizable features in Arches National Park, located in southeastern Utah. This unique geological formation offers visitors an array of activities and experiences. Upon arriving, you can embark on a short, well-maintained trail that loops around the rock, allowing for close-up views and excellent photo opportunities from various angles. The trail is relatively easy, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the natural history and geology of the area, enriching your understanding of how such formations come to be. Additionally, the site is a fantastic spot for stargazing due to the park's designation as an International Dark Sky Park. Whether you're looking to capture stunning photographs, enjoy a leisurely hike, or simply marvel at the natural wonder, Balanced Rock offers a serene and awe-inspiring experience amidst the breathtaking landscape of Arches National Park.

3. Windows Section

Natural Wonders, Free, Hiking, Sightseeing

1 to 2 hours

In the "Windows Section" of a software or settings menu, you can manage various aspects of window behavior and appearance on your computer. This section typically allows you to customize how windows are arranged, opened, and interacted with. You can adjust settings for snapping windows to sides or corners for multitasking, enabling or disabling transparency effects, and configuring window animations. Additionally, you might find options to manage multiple desktops, set window scaling for different display resolutions, and personalize title bars and borders. Advanced features could include tweaking virtual desktops' behavior, creating custom shortcuts for window management, and setting rules for specific applications. This section is essential for optimizing your workflow and ensuring a visually pleasing and efficient desktop environment.

4. Delicate Arch

Natural Wonders, Free, Hiking, Sightseeing

2 hours to Half Day

Delicate Arch, a stunning natural sandstone formation located within Arches National Park in Utah, offers a range of activities that cater to nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. The most popular activity is the 3-mile round-trip hike to the arch, which provides breathtaking views of the rugged landscape and the iconic arch itself. Along the trail, you can explore ancient petroglyphs and enjoy panoramic vistas of the La Sal Mountains. Photographers will find the arch particularly captivating at sunrise and sunset when the light casts a warm glow on the red rock. Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy picnicking at designated areas, stargazing in the clear desert sky, and participating in ranger-led programs that offer insights into the park’s geology and history. Whether you're capturing the perfect photo, engaging in a peaceful hike, or learning about the area's natural wonders, Delicate Arch provides a memorable and enriching outdoor experience.

5. Double Arch

Natural Wonders, Free, Hiking, Sightseeing

Less than 1 hour

Double Arch is a stunning rock formation located in Arches National Park, Utah. Known for its two massive, interconnected archways, it offers a unique and awe-inspiring sight. Visitors can begin their adventure with a short, easy hike of about 0.5 miles from the parking area. The trail is accessible and family-friendly, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. Once at Double Arch, you can marvel at the sheer size and natural beauty of the formation. The arches provide an excellent backdrop for photography, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the lighting enhances the red rock's vibrant hues. Adventurous visitors can scramble up the rocks beneath the arches for a different perspective and a bit of fun. The area around Double Arch is also great for picnicking and relaxing, offering a serene environment to soak in the natural beauty. Additionally, the site serves as a launching point for exploring other nearby attractions within Arches National Park, such as the Windows Section and Turret Arch.

6. Arches Visitor Center

Museums, Free

1 to 2 hours

The Arches Visitor Center, located at the entrance of Arches National Park in Utah, is a great starting point for your adventure. Here, you can gather essential information about the park's iconic sandstone arches, trails, and scenic viewpoints. The center features informative exhibits on the geological history, flora, and fauna of the park, providing a deeper understanding of the natural wonders you'll encounter. Rangers are available to answer questions and offer guidance on hiking routes, safety tips, and current park conditions. You can watch an orientation film that highlights the park's unique landscapes and get insights into the best spots for photography. The visitor center also has a bookstore where you can purchase maps, guidebooks, and souvenirs. Restrooms and water refill stations are available, ensuring you're well-prepared for your visit. Whether you're planning a short hike or an extensive exploration, the Arches Visitor Center equips you with the knowledge and resources needed for an unforgettable experience.

7. Fiery Furnace

Natural Wonders, Free, Hiking, Sightseeing

2 hours to Half Day

The Fiery Furnace, located in Arches National Park, Utah, offers a labyrinthine landscape of narrow sandstone canyons, natural arches, and towering rock formations that promise an unforgettable adventure. Unlike many other parts of the park, exploring the Fiery Furnace requires either a permit or a guided tour, ensuring that visitors respect the fragile ecosystem. On a guided tour, knowledgeable park rangers lead you through the maze-like terrain, pointing out unique geological features and sharing fascinating insights about the area's natural history. If you opt for a self-guided adventure, you'll need to demonstrate basic navigation skills and a commitment to Leave No Trace principles. The Fiery Furnace is famed for its challenging, non-marked trails, making it ideal for experienced hikers who crave a sense of exploration and discovery. As you weave through tight slots, scramble over rocks, and marvel at hidden arches, you'll be immersed in a truly unique and surreal landscape that lives up to its evocative name.

8. Wolfe Ranch

Free, Historic Homes/Mansions, Sightseeing

Less than 1 hour

Wolfe Ranch, located in Arches National Park in Utah, offers a glimpse into the rugged lifestyle of an early 20th-century homesteader. Visitors can explore the well-preserved cabin of John Wesley Wolfe, who settled there with his family in the early 1900s. The ranch serves as a starting point for several popular hikes, including the trail to the iconic Delicate Arch, one of the most photographed natural arches in the world. Along the trail, you can also see Ute Indian petroglyphs, providing a fascinating insight into the region's Native American history. The area around Wolfe Ranch is perfect for photography, with its stunning desert landscape, red rock formations, and varied wildlife. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, Wolfe Ranch offers a unique and enriching experience in the heart of one of America's most beautiful national parks.

9. Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers

Free, Hiking

1 to 2 hours

Nestled within the iconic Arches National Park in Utah, the Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers area offers a breathtaking introduction to the park's stunning red rock landscapes. Begin your adventure with the Park Avenue Trail, a relatively easy 2-mile round-trip hike that takes you through a canyon flanked by towering monoliths and sheer cliffs. As you meander along the trail, marvel at the majestic rock formations such as the Courthouse Towers, the Three Gossips, and the Organ, each sculpted by nature over millennia. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the dramatic play of light and shadow on the red sandstone, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The area is also a haven for geology enthusiasts, who can appreciate the intricate layers and formations that tell a story millions of years in the making. Whether you're hiking, photographing, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Park Avenue and Courthouse Towers offer a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

10. Devils Garden

Hiking

Half Day to Full Day

Devils Garden, located within Arches National Park in Utah, is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This area is renowned for its stunning rock formations, including the famous Landscape Arch, one of the world's longest natural rock arches. Visitors can embark on a variety of hiking trails that range from easy to challenging, offering something for everyone. The Devils Garden Trail is particularly popular, guiding hikers through a labyrinth of arches, spires, and fins. Along the way, you'll encounter other remarkable formations such as Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Primitive Loop offers a more rugged experience with breathtaking views and fewer crowds. Photography enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to capture the surreal landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset when the red rocks glow brilliantly. Whether you're hiking, photographing, or simply marveling at the natural beauty, Devils Garden offers an unforgettable experience.

11. Sand Dune and Broken Arch

Free, Hiking

1 to 2 hours

Sand Dune and Broken Arch, located in Arches National Park, Utah, offer a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. At Sand Dune Arch, you can marvel at the stunning sandstone formations that resemble giant sand dunes, perfect for photography and exploring. The short, sandy trail leading to the arch is family-friendly and offers a sense of adventure as you navigate through narrow passageways and towering red rock walls. Broken Arch, accessible via a moderate 2-mile loop trail, provides an immersive experience in the park's natural beauty. As you hike, you'll traverse open meadows and rugged terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. Once at the arch, you can scramble up the rocks for a closer look or relax in the shade beneath its impressive span. This area is ideal for hiking, photography, and appreciating the serene, otherworldly beauty of Arches National Park.

12. Corona Arch

Free, Hiking

2 hours to Half Day

Corona Arch, located near Moab, Utah, is a stunning natural sandstone arch that offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. The most popular activity is hiking the 1.5-mile (one-way) trail that leads to the arch. The trail is moderately challenging, featuring some steep sections and slickrock, but it rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the arch and the surrounding desert landscape. Once at the arch, visitors can marvel at its impressive 140-foot span and 105-foot height, making it a perfect spot for photography. For the more adventurous, Corona Arch is also a popular site for rappelling and rope swinging, although these activities should only be attempted by experienced individuals with the proper equipment. The area around the arch provides ample opportunities for picnicking and exploring the unique geological formations. Whether you're there to hike, photograph, or simply enjoy the natural beauty, Corona Arch offers a memorable outdoor experience.

13. Arches National Park Stargazing

Free, Recreation

1 to 2 hours

Arches National Park in Utah is renowned not only for its stunning rock formations but also for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. With minimal light pollution, the night skies here are incredibly clear, making it an ideal spot for celestial observation. Visitors can marvel at the Milky Way, spot numerous constellations, and even catch a glimpse of distant planets. The park often hosts ranger-led stargazing programs, which can enhance the experience with educational insights and high-powered telescopes. For a more immersive experience, consider a night hike to one of the iconic arches like Delicate Arch or Balanced Rock; these natural frames provide a breathtaking foreground to the star-filled sky. Remember to bring a star map, a red flashlight to preserve night vision, and a blanket or reclining chair for comfortable sky-watching. Whether you're an amateur astronomer or just a curious visitor, Arches National Park offers an unforgettable night under the stars.

14. Arches National Park Four-Wheel Drive Tours

Recreation, Tours, Sightseeing

2 hours to Half Day

Arches National Park Four-Wheel Drive Tours offer an adventurous and immersive way to explore the rugged beauty of this iconic Utah landscape. These tours take you off the beaten path to discover remote areas of the park that are inaccessible by standard vehicles. You'll traverse challenging terrains, including sandy washes, rocky trails, and steep inclines, all while enjoying the comfort and safety of a 4x4 vehicle driven by an experienced guide. Along the way, you'll witness awe-inspiring geological formations, such as towering red rock arches, spires, and balanced rocks, that define the park's unique scenery. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the park's geology, history, and wildlife, enhancing your appreciation of this natural wonder. Stops for short hikes allow you to get up close to some of the park's most famous landmarks, like Tower Arch and Eye of the Whale Arch. These tours are ideal for adventure seekers looking to experience the raw, untouched beauty of Arches National Park in an exhilarating and informative way.

15. Navajo Arch

Hiking

1 to 2 hours

Navajo Arch is a captivating natural formation located in Arches National Park, Utah. This lesser-known arch offers a serene and picturesque experience, perfect for those looking to escape the more crowded tourist spots. The arch is accessible via the Devil's Garden Trail, a moderately challenging hike that takes you through stunning landscapes featuring a variety of rock formations and desert flora. Upon reaching Navajo Arch, you'll be struck by its unique, cave-like structure, providing a cool, shaded area that's perfect for a restful break. The arch frames the surrounding scenery beautifully, making it an excellent spot for photography. The natural acoustics under the arch also offer a peaceful ambiance, ideal for meditative moments or simply soaking in the tranquility. Don't forget to explore the nearby Partition Arch and Landscape Arch, which are also accessible from the same trail, making your visit to Navajo Arch part of a broader, enriching adventure.

16. La Sal Mountains Viewpoint

Free, Sightseeing

Less than 1 hour

La Sal Mountains Viewpoint, located in Utah near the entrance to Arches National Park, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic La Sal Mountains. Visitors are greeted by a stunning contrast between the rugged red rock formations of the park and the snow-capped peaks of the La Sal range. This viewpoint is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the dramatic landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light accentuates the vibrant colors. Hiking and nature walks around the viewpoint allow you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the area. Interpretive signs provide insight into the geological history and natural features of the region. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, with various species thriving in the diverse habitats. For those wanting a peaceful retreat, the viewpoint offers picnic areas where you can relax and take in the scenery. Whether you're an outdoor adventurer or a casual visitor, La Sal Mountains Viewpoint presents a memorable experience amidst nature's splendor.