Moab Arches National Park

Moab Arches National Park is a red-rock wonderland in eastern Utah, home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. The fiery landscape, sculpted by wind and water over millions of years, offers some of the most iconic desert scenery in the American Southwest. This is a place where you can hike beneath delicate stone spans, watch sunset paint the rocks in shades of crimson and gold, and feel the profound silence of the high desert.

Highlights & What to See

• Delicate Arch – The park’s most famous arch, a freestanding marvel set against the La Sal Mountains. The 3-mile round-trip hike is strenuous but rewards with an unforgettable view, especially at sunset.
• Landscape Arch – One of the longest natural arches in the world, stretching 306 feet. A short, easy trail leads to this impossibly thin span – a must-see for its sheer improbability.
• Windows Section – A cluster of massive arches including North and South Window, plus Turret Arch. The easy 1-mile loop offers classic photo ops and a sense of scale.
• Fiery Furnace – A labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons and fins. Explore on a ranger-led tour (advance booking essential) for an adventurous scramble through hidden passages.
• Balanced Rock – A 3,600-ton boulder perched precariously on a pedestal. Just off the main road, it’s a quick stop for a quintessential desert snapshot.
• Devils Garden Trail – A 7.2-mile out-and-back that connects several arches, including Tunnel Arch and Pine Tree Arch. For experienced hikers, it’s the best way to escape the crowds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to experience the park’s highlights. Start early to beat the heat and crowds – the 18-mile scenic drive takes about an hour without stops, but you’ll want to linger at viewpoints and hike short trails. If you can spare two days, add a sunrise hike to Delicate Arch and an afternoon exploring the Fiery Furnace. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, so spring and fall are ideal. Remember to carry plenty of water – at least one gallon per person per day.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Canyonlands National Park – Just 30 minutes away, this vast park offers dramatic mesas and canyons, especially the Island in the Sky district.
• Dead Horse Point State Park – A short drive from Moab, with jaw-dropping views of the Colorado River entrenched 2,000 feet below.
• Moab – The gateway town, packed with outfitters for rafting, mountain biking, and jeep tours, plus excellent breweries and cafes.
• Colorado River – Float or raft through Westwater Canyon or the daily Moab Daily section for a cool break from the desert.
• La Sal Mountains – A scenic drive into the alpine zone offers hiking, wildflowers, and a respite from the heat.

Please check official sources for current details.