Just outside the frontier town of Moab, Utah, is a wild wilderness of red rocks and twisted sandstone arches. While this natural wonderland has been a significant geographical monument for centuries, it was not recognized as a national park until 1971. Today, over 1.5 million people come to experience the world-famous landmarks of Arches National Park every year.
From soaring pinnacles and gravity-defying balanced rocks to graceful red rock arches, here is our list of what to see and do in Arches National Park.
What Is Arches National Park Known For?
Carved by millennia of wind, rain and sun, Arches National Park is known for its landscape of red rock land formations and arches set against blue skies. The park stretches across 119 square miles of Utah’s red rock wilderness, and within this area, there are over 2,000 natural stone arches that awe and amaze visitors.
These openings were sculpted by the forces of nature that fractured the rocks and created arch-like formations. Some arches are only three feet wide, while the longest spans 306 feet. As you explore the dream-like surroundings, you’ll be captivated by the stunning colors and textures that stir the soul and imagination.
How to See Arches National Park
There are many ways to see and experience the natural wonders of Arches National Park. It all comes down to your personal preference and how much time you have to enjoy the sprawling landscape.
Scenic Drive
One of the most ideal ways to see this park’s remarkable natural features is an 18-mile scenic drive. The paved road takes you past some of the most famous arches and sights and allows you to experience this barren landscape from the comfort of your car.
Hiking
Arches National Park has hiking trails for every experience level. These rocky pathways give you access to views and vistas you will not see if you stay in your vehicle. Hikes range from 15-minute stints to five-hour expeditions.
Horseback Riding
Many visitors to Arches opt for a more authentic Western experience. Visitors are allowed to explore the rugged terrain atop horses, mules and burros. As you wander through archways and along cliffsides, you can imagine what earlier settlers to this landscape must have felt.
Mountain Biking
Biclyists can zoom down the paved and dirt roads of Arches National Park as they take in the stunning scenery. Trails feature panoramic climbs and dramatic descents through rugged terrain.
5 Best Arches to See in Arches National Park
The name says it all — the soaring collection of arches is the main reason guests flock to Arches National Park. These natural wonders are a sight to behold. Each is a rock formation with a hole completely through it, but there are various types, including free-standing arches, natural bridges, cliff-wall arches and pothole arches.
When you come to Arches, you are sure to find your favorite rock formation. However, here are some of the most famous arches in Arches National Park.
1. Delicate Arch
Delicately chiseled from the sandstone rock is the most famous arch at the park — Delicate Arch. This free-standing arch is world-famous due to its large opening and distinctive backdrop. Expect a strenuous hike with a terrific payoff at the end if you want to see this stone icon up close.
2. Landscape Arch
With an opening of 306 feet, Landscape Arch is the widest arch on the continent. The bright blue Utah sky and golden sandstone terrain often frame this rock formation. Due to its surprisingly slender stone span, many fear it’s prone to collapse, so do not delay your visit.
3. Double Arch
This wide-spanning rock formation soars above all the other arches in the park at 112 feet. Visitors who snap a picture under the epic arch look ant-like in comparison. The short, mostly flat hike to this archway makes it a great option for beginning hikers.
4. Sand Dune Arch
Surrounded by soft sand, a walk through Sand Dune Arch feels like traversing a narrow canyon. This arch is much smaller and gives visitors an up close and personal view.
5. The Windows Section
The Window Section is a large concentration of arches that seem to lead from one view to another to another. Visitors can enjoy a scenic peak through Double Arch, Turret Arch and North Window, to name a few, in one breathtaking expanse.
What Else Is There to Do in Arches National Park?
The thrilling beauty of the arches is just one part of a visit to this famed national park. This region is a thrill-seeker’s paradise and boasts a bevy of exciting activities for every kind of adventurer:
- Commercial tours: Learn more about the famed history of Arches from those who know it best. Tours of the park are available, including thrilling four-wheel adventures.
- Photography: With every camera snap, your lens will capture timeless landscapes and unspeakable beauty. The wondrous rock shapes and captivating vistas make compelling subjects for photographs.
- Canyoneering and rock climbing: Whether you prefer a deep descent into sandstone canyons or a rugged climb through sandy routes, Arches is the perfect place for an epic adventure.
- Stargazing: After dark, Arches comes alive in a whole new way. Because this park is well away from the big city glow, the skies above Arches are ablaze with thousands of stars. That is more than most visitors have ever seen in their lifetime.
- Camping: If you are looking for a proper outdoor excursion to this national park, camping near Arches is a must. It’s the only way to truly experience the outdoor majesty of this region.
Plan Your Camping Trip to Arches National Park With Kampgrounds of America
Whether you are planning a family trip to Arches National Park or an epic national parks road trip, your visit will be much better when you book your campsite at KOA. From tent camping under the stars to more luxurious ways to stay, KOA has something for every kind of camper.
Book your stay at Moab KOA Holiday just 15 minutes from Arches National Park. You can also explore our other nearby KOA Campgrounds.
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
