DeeExplore Arches National Park’s hidden gems and scenic vistas. Featuring 12 best ways to experience the park.
#1. CHECK OUT THE VISITOR CENTER
Start your exploration of Arches at the Visitor Center. Grab a park map and check out the park movie to learn about the history and geology of Arches National Park. Stop at the restroom and get the latest scoop from the park ranger. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir at the park store.
#2. 18 MILE SCENIC DRIVE
If you’re not interested in hiking, then look no further than the scenic overlooks along the Main Park Road. These are some of best places to take in the views, have a picnic and marvel at the forces of nature at work. The overlooks you cannot miss are, Park Avenue, Petrified Dunes, La Sal Mountains, and Balanced Rock.
#3. HIKE DELICATE ARCH
When you think of Arches National Park, you’re probably picturing Delicate Arch. This incredible sandstone formation is what is left over from what used to be a fin. The arch sits at the end of a canyon with the La Sal Mountains in the background.
For more details about Delicate Arch, check out our post, How to Visit Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.
#4. FIERY FURNACE
Take a ranger guided or self guided hike through narrow passages & towering sandstone walls at the Fiery Furnace. Permits are $10 per person and can be obtained online up to 7 days in advance.
#5. GET ON A TRAIL
A great way to explore the incredible nature of Arches National Park. Whether it’s an easy scenic stroll or a challenging day hike, Arches has something for everyone. The most popular in the park are Delicate Arch, Devils Garden, and The Windows.
For easy trails consider | Balanced Rock, The Windows, Double Arch, Delicate Arch Viewpoints, Sand Dune Arch, Broken Arch, Skyline Arch, Landscape Arch via Devils Garden, & Courthouse Wash Panel
For moderate trails consider | Park Avenue
For more strenuous trails consider | Delicate Arch, Tower Arch, Double O Arch, Devils Garden, & Fiery Furnace
#6. 4X4
Explore miles of unpaved scenic views on the Willow Spring & West Valley Jeep Roads. A high clearance four wheel drive vehicle is required and features several arches that most visitors don’t get to see.
For more info on off roading in Arches check out the park website.
#7. CANYONEERING
For a unique experience in Arches National Park, obtain a permit and explore the parks popular cayoneering spots, such as, Fiery Furnace, Park Avenue, and Lost Spring Canyon.
For more information on canyoneering in Arches check out the park website.
#8. BACKPACK THE WILDERNESS
For a more in depth exploration of Arches National Park pick up a backpacking permit and tour the parks remote wilderness. This is a great way to avoid the crowds and experience the incredible night sky. Permits are issued in person at the Backcountry Permit Office in Moab.
#9. PARKS AS CLASSROOMS
What better way to learn then by bringing the classroom to the park! The National Park System provides a series of curriculum covering topics such a math, science, social studies, and language arts for elementary and middle school learners. A great option for homeschooling or field trips.
#10. JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM
If you’re not able to plan a visit to Arches National Park then this is great way for you’re kids to still learn about the park without actually being there. The Virtual Junior Ranger Program consists of a series of videos and activities to complete with a Virtual Badge to be given at the end.
#11. EXPERIENCE THE DARK SKIES
Designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2019, Arches National Park provides spectacular viewing of the night sky. For a memorial experience join an evening ranger program or stay overnight in the campground and experience what a truly dark sky looks like.
#12. ROCK CLIMBING
During the months of September through March rock climbers can explore Arches sandstone pinnacles and towers. Climbers can obtain a free permit online or at the kiosk at the visitor center.
For more info on rock climbing in Arches visit the park website.
I hope you found this post helpful in planning your visit to Arches National Park. Let us know in the comments what are your favorite things to do!
