Arches National Park: Utah's Land of Stone Arcs

Arches National Park: Utah’s Land of Stone Arcs

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Delicate Arch is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Arches National Park.

Arches National Park: Utah’s Land of Stone Arcs

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The Courthouse Towers area is one of the first views you'll see upon entering Arches National Park.

Arches National Park: Utah’s Land of Stone Arcs

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Double O Arch, located in the Devils Garden area, is a beautiful arch that can be reached by a somewhat challenging hike.

The landscape of Arches National Park is 65 million years in the making. The park protects the densest concentration of natural stone arches in the world (over 2000!). Delicate Arch is the most recognizable formation, standing 60 feet (18 meters) tall with a breathtaking view through its curve. Remember to slow down and look beyond the arches for other equally fascinating and dramatic formations like pinnacles, balanced rocks, fins, and more.

The park is highly accessible, and starting with the 18-mile scenic road is a great way to get your bearings. Take your time, drive carefully, and take a few short hikes to see your bucket-list formations. Outside of your car, photography is a top choice for pastimes in the park—even the night skies are special in Arches. Backpacking and camping options are clearly outlined by the NPS and will give you a real connection to the park’s vistas. You can also join tours or ranger-led programs to really dive deep into the geology, night skies, and wildlife of the park.

Like many national parks, Arches hosts a lot of visitors each year. Consider planning your trip for the shoulder season or off-season for a unique, peaceful experience!

Outside the park, the town of Moab offers endless outdoor adventure! Cycling in the park is only allowed on the roads, but you can get your desert mountain biking fix (and much more) in this gateway town.

Facts & Stats

Landscape Arch has the longest span of any arch in North America, 306 feet (93.3 meters), and is the fourth longest in the world.

The sandstone boulder atop Balanced Rock is estimated to weigh 3,577 tons.

There are 745 species of plant in the park, and the crust on the soil surface is a macrobiotic community.

More than 10 films have used a scene from Arches National Park, including the western Rio Conchos, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and Thelma and Louise.