The best hikes in Arches National Park

Hikes in Arches National Park are the best way to see the impressive rock formation and experience the red rocks that make this area so beautiful.

Arches National Park is best viewed on foot in my opinion. It’s how you get away from the main Arches Scenic Drive that can be busy ad slow-moving with the cars, and get to take things at your own pace. Pausing to stop and admire the unique arches or rock formations, get some fresh air, and enjoy the views from unique viewpoints.

Some of my favorite views from our 3 month drive across America were on hikes in Arches National Park. Sure, you can drive around it pretty easily and see some incredible scenery.

All of these hikes in Arches are day hikes. You won’t need backpacking gear to complete them and even the longest maintained hike will only take half a day to complete.

Nothing is too steep either so the hikes are accessible to most people. We saw people of all ages, fitness, and preparedness while doing the best hiking in Arches National Park, so you’ve got no excuse!

These are the best hikes half-day hikes in Arches National Park that I recommend you check out in one of the best Utah national parks.

Best hikes in Arches National Park Utah

Arches National Park hiking map

I always use a hiking app while out exploring the best trails. In Arches National Park I recommend Alltrails+ where you can pan your hikes, download the offline maps so you can navigate even without cell service, and record and track your hikes.

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

I’ve also included a map below which shows you where these hikes are in relation to Moab and the park itself.

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

1. The Devil’s Garden Trail

• Distance: 12.7 km / 7.9 miles
• Duration: 3-5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 331 m / 1086 ft
• Trail map

The Devil’s Garden Trail is the longest maintained trail in Arches National Park and it’s also the best day hike in Arches National Park.

It’ll take you a good few hours, but if you’re fairly speedy you’ll be able to fit in this in the morning and the hike to Delicate Arch in the afternoon as we did.

On the Devil’s Garden Trail, you’ll get to see 7 arches plus the Dark Angel Spire. First up is Landscape Arch, and then there’s Navajo Arch, Partition Arch, Pine Tree Arch, Tunnel Arch, Double O Arch, Private Arch, and the Dark Angel.

From the Devils Garden trailhead at the furthest end of the Arches National Park drive, you can make this hike as long or as short as you want. Many people just hop out of the car and do the Landscape Arch hike which is the most well-known arch on this trail.

Alternatively, you can walk the Devils Garden primitive loop trail which is a bit quieter and has more fun (easy) rock scrambling. I’d highly recommend doing this trail even if you only have one day in Arches National Park.

This was my favorite of the best day hikes in Arches National Park that we did!

If you do decide to hike the Primitive Trail, I recommend downloading AllTrails+ and then downloading the offline map for the Devils Garden Loop trail. This way you can use your phone’s GPS to stay on track even when the trail gets a little bit harder to follow.

2. Delicate Arch Trail

• Distance: 5.1 km / 3.2 miles
• Duration: 1-2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 192 m / 630 ft
• Trail map

Delicate Arch is the most popular hike in Arches National Park. If you only have a half-day in Arches National Park and plan on visiting Canyonlands National Park for the rest of the day, be sure to make time for this hike.

Out of the 2,000 arches scattered across this National Park’s landscape, Delicate Arch is the one everyone knows. It’s plastered on every Utah license plate and even on the state welcome sign!

On this out-and-back trail, you’ll climb up a slick rock incline, occasionally skirting around steep drop-offs, to ultimately stand and gaze up in awe at the foot of the 46-foot tall structure.

The hike to Delicate Arch takes you on an open trail so you’ll get views the entire time. We even saw a snake as we were hiking during the afternoon on our visit to Arches National Park!

The only slight downside to the Delicate Arch hike is that it’s a busy one. Peaceful backcountry experience this is not!

However, it never feels overwhelmingly busy and, at least when we hiked, there were no points where you’re in a queue of people as you walk. The only time you’ll have to queue is at the end as people line up to get a photo of themselves under the arch.

This Arches National Park hike gets even better if you time it with sunrise or sunset. During the morning and evening, the arch gets lit up in a beautiful light and makes it even prettier.

If you only have a half day in Arches National Park; this is the hike you should do!

If you go for sunset and then stay a while (I recommend packing something like a Rumpl blanket or a puffy jacket to keep you warm), you can enjoy the most incredible Arches National Park stargazing.

The skies are super dark since the park has a Dark Sky Designation and it’s incredible to see.

3. Fiery Furnace Hike and Surprise Arch

• Distance: 3.4 km / 2.1 miles
• Duration: 1.5 – 3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate – Hard
• Elevation: 150 m / 492 ft
• Trail map

The Fiery Furnace hike in Arches National Park is easily one of the best trails in Arches National Park Utah.

It’s not too difficult in terms of requiring high fitness levels, but it can be quite challenging to navigate.

On this hike, you’ll have to pick your way through a maze of towering sandstone fins and through slot canyons, over boulders, and more without well-marked trails to help.

This Arches National Park trail gets its name from the red color of the rocks which look a bit like a furnace when the sunlight hits them.

It’s also difficult to be able to get to hike it since you need a Fiery Furnace hiking permit in order to be allowed on the trail. Alternatively, you can book a ranger-led hike but even this can be tricky to get hold of.

Permits for Fiery Furnace tend to sell out immediately and you can get them a week in advance at 8 am MT. Set a reminder, and act quickly to get one!

4. Broken Arch Trail & Tapestry Arch

• Distance: 2.7 km / 1.7 miles
• Duration: 30 – 45 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 51 m / 167 ft
• Trail map

The Broken Arch Trail and Tapestry Arch start by taking you from the Devil’s Garden Trailhead out to Broken Arch before looping around Tapestry Arch at the far end of your hike.

You’ll start by walking across a large desert area that’s open and covered in shrubs before winding around several finds (fractured rocks) coming out of the ground.

There’s a short easy scramble towards the far point of your hike and it’s pleasantly less crowded than other hikes in Arches National Park and the rock formations are no less impressive.

5. Upper Delicate Arch Viewpoint Trail

• Distance: 1.6 km / 1 mile
• Duration: 30 – 45 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 52 m / 171 ft
• Trail map

This is one of the easy hikes in Arches National Park and it takes you over to a viewpoint of Delicate Arch. If you’re out-hiked but still want to see Delicate Arch this is a great trail to walk.

Though you don’t get as close to the arch as you do on the Delicate Arch trail, you’ll be able to see the arch across a canyon and watch the crowds lining up for pictures.

Parts of the trail are steep, and it remains exposed to the sun throughout so make sure you’ve got a hat, suncream, and plenty of water.

This trail also includes the Lower Delicate Arch viewpoint (below).

It’s also a good idea to bring some small binoculars as the arch is still quite far away from this viewpoint.

We did this walk after the Devil’s Garden Loop and it actually made us want to do the full hike out to Delicate Arch as the rock looked so cool! So, after this walk, we went and did just that!

6. Lower Delicate Arch Trail

• Distance: 0.6 km / 0.37 mile
• Duration: 15 mins
• Difficulty: Easy

This easy and accessible walk from the parking lot to a viewpoint out across the canyon to Delicate Arch is well worth doing if you’re visiting Arches National Park with young children but want to check out this famous arch.

This is one of the best short hikes in Arches National Park if you’re short on time during your visit.

7. The Windows & Turret Arch

• Distance: 1.9 km / 1.2 miles
• Duration: 30 – 45 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 47 m / 154 ft
• Trail map

Another of the top trails in Arches National Park, The Windows & Turret Arch loop is an exciting, easy hike that gives you the chance to see three arches in just over a mile.

You can also walk over to Double Arch (below) before or after checking out the Windows arches.

From the Windows, you get a fantastic view of Turret Arch, which I also recommend walking over to.

Instead of an out-and-back trail, you can make this a loop by walking the more fun primitive trail back to the parking lot.

This trail winds around the back of the Windows and is often less crowded which is why I enjoyed it.

8. Double Arch Trail

• Distance: 1 km / 0.6 miles
• Duration: 15 mins
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 29 m / 95 ft
• Trail map

Double Arch Trail is another very popular hike in Arches National Park.

It involves a quick and easy walk out and back on an easy-to-follow trail to two neighboring arches that form a massive amphitheater that opens to the sky.

Scrambling around the rock faces underneath the arches can add an extra level of fun to this trail.

This trail starts from the same parking lot as the Windows Loop, s you can combine the two trails to maximize your hike and see more of the best arches in Arches National Park.

9. Elephant Butte

• Distance: 2.6 km / 1.6 miles
• Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate – hard
• Elevation: 182 m / 597 ft
• Trail map

For a more challenging hike, Elephant Butte is a great option.

As the highest point in Arches National Park, this hike involves a bit of a challenging climb up to a viewpoint with 360-degree views of the park, the La Sal Mountains, the Colorado River, and the high desert landscape.

To complete the trail a shown on the AllTrails map you’ll need rock climbing and rappelling knowledge and gear. You can still do some of the hike, and then walk back the way you came without rappelling equipment.

10. Park Avenue and Sheep Rock

• Distance: 2.9 km / 1.8 miles
• Duration: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy
• Elevation: 91 m / 299 ft
• Trail map

Park Avenue is one of the first trails you get to when you drive into Arches National Park.

This trail is famous for its impressive rock formations known as the Courthouse Towers as well. asSheep Rock.

Walking this trail gives you the chance to truly appreciate the scale of these massive rocks.

There are parking lots at both ends of the trail so if you’re traveling in a larger group you could split the cars up and only hike one direction.

11. Moab Canyon Pathway

• Distance: 14.3 km / 8.9 miles
• Duration: 3 – 4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 245 m / 804 ft
• Trail map

The Moab Canyon Pathway is a great hiking trail that’s one of the best things to do in Moab.

Running from the town of Moab to Arches National Park, this trail can be used by hikers, cyclists, and runners.

Along the way you’ll get amazing views of the red rock landscapes, the La Sal Mountain range, and the powerful Colorado River.

While technically not located inside Arches National Park it’s super close by and gives you some of the same scenery without the crowds or needing to get a timed Arches National Park reservations to enter between 7 am and 4 pm.

The pathway is mostly flat and paved, making it an easier hike for those with strollers or reduced mobility and it’s one of the best hikes in Moab.

The section that goes through the Moab Brands Focus Area is particularly pretty with unique rock formations and a series of mountain bike trails.

12. Sand Dune Arch Hike

• Distance: 0.5 km / 0.3 miles
• Duration: 15 mins
• Difficulty: Easy – Moderate
• Elevation: 38 m / 125 ft
• Trail map

If you’re in search of a short hike in Arches National Park, look no further than the Sand Dune Arch Hike.

This easy trail guides you toward a fascinating group of sandstone fins. You’ll also get to go through two of the fins which create something a bit like a slot canyon which is super cool to walk through, especially if you’re new to desert landscapes like we were when we did this hike.

You’ll also get to see one of the lesser-known arches, Sand Dune Arch. This arch is tucked away a little bit and on a hot day, Sand Dune Arch actually gives you some shade which I promise you will be most welcome.

13. Tower Arch Hike

• Distance: 3.9 km / 2.4 miles
• Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 183 m / 600 ft
• Trail map

Slightly off the main scenic drive in Arches National Park is the trailhead for the Tower Arch hike.

You’ll walk past lots of sandstone fins, following cairns leading you straight to Tower Arch, a massive formation that is 92 feet long and offers one of the most breathtaking views in the park!

The Tower Arch hike isn’t too tricky and it’s the beginning of the trail where you’ll need to do the most climbing. Afterward, you’ll come out to a great panoramic view at the end, with arches, towers, and layers of red rock stretching as far as the eye can see.

One of the best parts of this hike in Arches National Park is that is a pretty quiet trail which not that many people that visit the park end up hiking (especially when compared to Delicate Arch!).

There are two trailheads for the Tower Arch Hike, one at Klondike Bluffs and another along an unmaintained road. Whichever route you choose, make sure to check with a ranger for the current road conditions, and always ensure you are well prepared for the hike.

14. Ribbon Arch Trail

• Distance: 3.2 km / 2 miles
• Duration: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation: 120 m / 394 ft
• Trail map

The Ribbon Arch Trail is. a great hike if you’re looking for something quieter and gives you another new arch to check out.

The trailhead starts from the Klondike Bluffs area and there are loads of sandstone fins and towering red rock formations along the route.

You’ll cross small canyons and wind up towards the viewpoint where Ribbon Arch stands out in the desert.

15. Balanced Rock Trail

• Distance: 2.7 km / 0.3 miles
• Duration: 15 mins
• Difficulty: Easy

The trail takes you around an intriguing rock formation with an enormous football-shaped sandstone boulder, weighing an astounding 3,600 tons, precariously balancing on a thin-ish rock pedestal.

Although more of a walking path than a traditional hike, it’s a great spot to stretch your legs and be amazed by another fantastic rock formation within Arches.

There’s a good picnic spot across from Balanced Rock with some picnic tables and a canopy where you can enjoy some food under the shade with views of the valley.

Things to know before visiting Arches National Park

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

• Timed Entry Permit for Visiting Arches National Park: From April 1-October 31, 2023, visitors will need to obtain a timed entry reservation to visit Arches National Park between the hours of 7 am – 4 pm.
• Arches National Park hours: The park is open 24 hours a day. The visitor’s center opens from 7.30 am to 6 pm.
• Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle, valid for a week. If you plan on visiting multiple national parks, it’s worthwhile getting the America Parks Pass for $80, valid for a year
• Driving in Arches National Park: The park, though smaller than some (under 120 square miles), requires a vehicle. There is no shuttle or public transit system in the park.
• Start early: The park is incredibly popular, with over a million visitors per year. To avoid crowded trails and the heat of the day, begin your day in the park early.
• Leave No Trace Principles: Arches National Park is a sacred place for several Indigenous tribes like the Pueblo of Zuni and the Hopi tribe. Please treat the park with respect by adhering to the Leave No Trace Principles. Do not damage the park in any way, including graffiti, especially on ancient petroglyphs. Such actions are not just disrespectful, but also a federal crime.
• Dogs in Arches National Park: Dogs are not allowed on trails or overlooks.

Best Time to Hike in Arches National Park

Arches National Park is great to visit all year round, but you need to know what the weather will be like when you go.

Hiking Arches National Park in Spring and Fall

Spring, from April to May, and fall, from September to October, are the most popular times to visit Arches National Park. It’s also the best time to visit for hiking in Arches National Park.

During these seasons, it’s not too hot during the day – the temperature is usually between 60 and 80 ºF (15-26 ºC). At night, it can get a bit chilly with temperatures falling between 30 and 50 ºF (-1 to 10 ºC).

Arches National Park in Summer

Summer in the park can get very hot and I wouldn’t recommend it if you’re planning on hiking in the park.

Daytime temperatures can go over 100 ºF (38 ºC). Plus, on many trails and places in the park, there’s no place to hide from the sun.

But if summer is the only time you can go, make sure you drink lots of water and protect yourself from the sun. It’s also a good idea to start your day really early, even before the sun comes up. This way, you can do some hiking and exploring before it gets too hot.

I’d recommend taking a look at this guide to what clothing to wear when hiking in hot weather.

Arches National Park Winter

Winter is a cold season in the park. Daytime temperatures can vary from 30 to 50 ºF (-1 to 10 ºC), and at night it can get really cold, dropping to between 0 and 20 ºF (-18 to 7ºC). But don’t let that scare you away!

If you pick a sunny day to visit, winter can be one of the best times to go. The park isn’t as crowded, so you’ll have more peace and quiet.

Plus, if you’re lucky, you might see the red sandstone covered in a bit of snow, which is really beautiful. Most of the hikes on this list are also great options for the best winter hikes in Arches National Park. Jut take extra care if it’s icy.

Just remember to pack warm clothes if you plan to visit during this time such as gloves, a hat, and definitely an insulated jacket!

What to Pack for Hiking at Arches National Park

So now that you’re armed with a ton of amazing trails to check out, here are the must-have essentials for your time in the park.

I’ve got a more detailed packing list for Arches National Park here.

• Hiking Shoes or Boots: The terrain in Arches National Park can be rugged and rocky, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential. Consider water-resistant or waterproof footwear if you’ll be visiting during a wet season. I interchange my hiking boots and my trail running shoes.
• Hat and Sunglasses: Given the park’s open landscape, there’s little shade to protect from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will provide much-needed protection for your eyes and face.
• Sunscreen: To avoid sunburn during your hike, pack a high-SPF sunscreen. Remember to reapply it throughout the day, especially if you’re sweating or if you get wet.
• Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: The park can get very hot, especially in summer, and staying hydrated is crucial. Carry a reusable water bottle or a hydration pack to refill at available water stations.
• Snacks: Energy-rich snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or granola bars can help keep your energy levels up during the hike.
• First-Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any necessary personal medication. It’s always good to be prepared for minor injuries or medical emergencies.
• Maps or Navigation Tools: While the park’s trails are generally well-marked, having a physical map or a navigation tool can provide additional confidence and help ensure you don’t get lost.
• Layered Clothing: Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically throughout the day. Layered clothing will allow you to adjust your body temperature easily as you hike.
• Camera: With its stunning landscapes and unique rock formations, you’ll likely want to capture some photos during your hike. Whether it’s a smartphone or a professional camera, remember to bring something to capture those moments.
• Headlamp or Flashlight: If you plan to hike early in the morning or late in the evening, you’ll need a headlamp.

Remember, packing appropriately can make the difference between a pleasant, memorable hike and an uncomfortable or even dangerous situation. Always be prepared when heading out into nature, and pay close attention to the weather forecast and park advisories. In addition to the above, you should always carry these hiking essentials for safety.

Where to stay near Arches National Park

When it comes to where to stay in Arches National Park, there are few options within the park apart from camping in Arches National Park.. For hotels and other options, you’ll be staying in Moab which is a great town just outside the park.

• Radcliffe Moab: A 3-star hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge, and a restaurant. Some rooms offer city views or a terrace. The hotel serves vegan and gluten-free breakfast and offers a hot tub for guests.
• The Gonzo Inn: Seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and a terrace. All rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with amenities such as a coffee machine, a fridge, and a microwave. The hotel offers an array of breakfast options and a restaurant serving American and Italian cuisine.
• Red Cliffs Lodge: Located along the Colorado River, this resort features amenities like a horse corral, a Western film museum, and a winery. Each suite includes a private patio with creek or river views.
• Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton: This luxurious hotel is known for its beautiful location, comfortable rooms, and excellent restaurant. The rooms are modern and quiet, and feature luxury bathrooms.
• Moab Springs Ranch: This 3-star hotel has a garden, terrace, and restaurant. Some rooms feature a kitchenette. The hotel offers a hot tub, barbecue facilities, and opportunities for hiking.
• Under Canvas Moab: Unique tent accommodations offer stunning views, BBQ facilities, and a choice between basic tents with shared bathrooms or luxury tents with private bathrooms and lounges. Bicycle rental is available for exploring local desert trails.

Camping in Arches National Park

The Devil’s Garden Campground is the only campground in Arches National Park. It features 50 sites and each site can accommodate up to 10 people.

The campground at Arches has wide-open views and is quite spacious. Getting a reservation can be tricky though as it books up quickly, far in advance.

If you’re camping in an RV or didn’t manage to get a camping spot at Arches National Park then take a look at Up the Creek campground.

It’s a campground in Moab which is within walking distance of the best restaurants and shops in the town. Here you’ll get hot showers, proper toilets, and more – luxury camping!

FAQs about Arches National Park Hikes

Final thoughts on the best Arches National Park hikes

As you’ve seen through this guide to the best hikes in Arches National Park, you’ve seen some of the best Arches trails including the hike to Delicate Arch, navigating the Fiery Furnace on a ranger-led tour, and the Park Avenue trail.

Make sure to plan your visit with diligence, considering the potential weather conditions, crowd levels, and your hiking ability and fitness for these Arches hikes.

Doing these Arches National Park trails made it one of the most memorable national parks we visited during our trip to North America.

If you have the time, I highly recommend checking out these other hiking guides to the best hikes in the other Utah Mighty 5 Parks such as these awesome hikes in Bryce Canyon, the best Canyonlands National Park hikes, and these trails for hiking in Zion National Park.

Last Updated on July 17, 2023 by Hannah