Create a family scavenger hunt to find many of the 2,000 identified stone arches in Arches National Park. Some are so close to rock walls that you need to be next to them to notice. Others are visible via short walks from parking locations or shuttle stops or can be reached by hiking.
The park offers natural beauty and extraordinary physical science lessons. Learn about the geology behind the unique arch structure. Most of the arches started as domes. Over many thousands of years, wind, water and frost allowed the inner sections to erode away. Iron oxide gives the rocks the distinctive red color.
For viewing enjoyment and photographic excellence, get recommendations from the visitor center or park website. Some of the best times and observation spots for great lighting and striking images have been identified and mapped. Landscape Arch, with the park’s largest light opening at 306 feet (93 meters), is a great place to watch the sunrise with early morning light spreading through the arch.
Delicate Arch is the favorite of many visitors for sunset viewing. For many months of the year you’ll see snow-capped peaks when you look through several arches toward the La Sal Mountains.
Hike on your own on trails ranging from easy to strenuous levels. Some walks travel directly under massive arches. Reserve a spot on a ranger-led interpretive tour to learn more.
The park has much to see in addition to its arches. Erosion has created many interesting shapes, including pinnacles, fins and rocks balanced on narrow towers. Look for the fittingly named Tower of Babel, Balanced Rock, Three Gossips and Elephant Butte.
You’ll find many opportunities for free climbing, bouldering and canyoneering. Register online or at the visitor center and follow park rules for allowed locations and required practices. The Fiery Furnace and Petrified Dunes sections offer popular routes.
Arches National Park is one of Utah’s five national parks. Plan a multi-day trip to enjoy them all. Purchase a daily or weekly pass or the economical interagency annual pass for use at all U.S. national parks.
