skippingbrooksBecause there is so much to see and do in the area surrounding Arches National Park including the surrounding town of Moab and Canyonlands National Park, this guide will help you plan the most popular things to see while visiting Arches National park in one day. And yes, it can be done and it’s exactly what we did.
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Arches National Park in One Day
Nestled in the desert of Utah lies the largest proliferation of arches in the world known as Arches National Park. In fact, this vast region of red sandstone formations attracts 1.5 million visitors every year and its popularity continues to grow.
Did you know Arches National Park can be driven in 4-5 hours? Sure can! Driving round trip through the park is only about 36 miles. This paved scenic road will take visitors to many of the major viewpoints within the park. However, I want to show you some of the beauty not just from the window of your car, you are going to need to get out and explore!
So what are the most popular things to see AND do while visiting?
I will take you through the most popular things to see while visiting Arches National Park in one day and I guarantee you will leave Arches NP feeling like you have seen it all! I have designated each destination as “family-friendly hike” or “by car” to help you plan. So let’s get started!
First Things to Know Before You Visit Arches National Park in One DayTime
Timed Park Passes: New For 2022
Starting April 3 through October 3, 2022, a temporary timed entry system will be in place to help manage traffic and improve visitor experiences. Visitors will also need a park pass to enter Arches National Park. Click here to make a reservation and to see full details.
1. Delicate Arch Trail-Hike
By far the most popular arch to see in Arches National Park as I am sure you have seen photos of this iconic rock formation. In fact, people from all over the world have the Delicate Arch on top of their to-do and see lists. And did you know this free-standing arch has become a widely recognized symbol of the state of Utah and one of the most famous geologic features in the world? Oh, and by the way, you can even have a wedding under the arch if you wish. Permit required of course.
Found near the back of the park, the Delicate Arch trail should be your first early morning planned activity of the day. Why? Because this hike is a moderate 3-mile round trip hike that if taken during peak season can be very hot and heavily traveled.
However, the Delicate Arch can be seen from a viewing area as well if you don’t want to take the time or have the ability to hike. Unfortunately, you will be not able to see its beauty up close it’s still picture-worthy.
There are two ways to view the Delicate Arch at the viewpoint locations. One is the Lower Delicate Arch viewpoint which is a wide hard surface path accessible for wheelchairs. The Upper Delicate Arch viewpoint is a 1/2 mile hike that is not accessible to wheelchairs as it includes a steep climb on a rocky trail.
2. Landscape Arch-Famly Friendly Hike
Stretching 306 feet long, Landscape Arch is the longest in the world, 6 feet longer than a football field! With statistics like that, you have to check it out! And don’t wait too long because researchers believe it can collapse at any time.
Facts to know about the Landscape Arch when visiting. The hike to the arch and back is approximately 1.9 miles and the trail is relatively flat with no significant elevation gain, just areas of moderate hills. And dang get this, a nine-story building would easily fit beneath its span.
3. Windows Primitive Loop-Family Friendly Hike
This is a quick, easy, beautiful out and back trail however the worst part is the parking. So plan to visit early in the day or later in the evening to avoid larger crowds as this a popular hike. This 1 mile loop takes you to three arches, North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch.
My favorite is the Noth Window. As you can see in the photos below, you can stand right in the middle of the arch and enjoy the panoramic views of the colorful desert beyond.
From the viewpoint of the southwest angle of the North and South Window, you can also “see” why these two arches are sometimes called the Spectacles. Because the two holes look like lenses of eyeglasses sitting on the nose.
4. Double Arch Trail-Family Friendly Hike
Another mostly flat trail. Are you catching onto a theme yet? Most popular hikes among families with Arches have little elevation gain and are relatively easy. Thus making Arches National Park in one day so doable!
With that said, the Double Arch trail is only a 1/2 mile long and can be seen easily from the road. Again, parking can be tricky as this trail has a lower parking lot that visitors use for the Primitive Loop trails when the upper lot fills for the Primitive Loop. Double Arch acquired the name because it consists of two arches that share the same stone foundation.
Fun Fact: Double Arch was used as a backdrop for portions of the 1988 movie “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”.
5. The Three Gossips-By Car
To be completely honest we stumbled upon the Three Gossips while driving through the park. We noticed the formation because it can see be seen as it’s right out in the open. We laughed at how the formation looked so much like people. And then, we were surprised by the name once we looked it up! No hiking is required to snap a picture of this formation, onto the next stop.
6. Park Avenue-Family Friendly Hike
Have you ever been to New York City? Visited Park Avenue? If you have then you will see the true resemblance of the famous New York City street Park Avenue. Early travelers noticed the resemblance between this sandstone and the buildings along New York’s Park Avenue to which the name became permanent.
Park Avenue hike can be taken by hiking the 2-mile hike which can be accessed by two different trails heads. Park Avenue Overlook or Courthouse Towers Trailhead. These gigantic sandstones will make you feel so tiny in their magnificent grandeur.
7. Balancing Rock- Car or Family Friendly Hike
Balancing Rock is one sight that can be easily seen from the car or hopping out to take a quick photo. This short paved trail leads to the base of Balanced Rock which is 128 feet tall, with the balanced rock perched at 55 feet above its base.
Other Adventures in Moab
Looking for some more fun in the desert? I highly recommend renting a side by side and exploring Dead Horse Point State Park. See petroglyphs, some amazing viewpoints, and some oh shit moments! A “don’t look down” MUST DO adventure!
Safe Aventures,
Brooke
Check out some of my other blog posts on National Parks:
