If you have 3 to 5 days to explore Arches National Park, you can create an itinerary that allows you to experience the park’s stunning landscapes, hike its trails, and explore both the iconic landmarks and some quieter, less-visited spots. Below are suggested itineraries for both a 3-day and 5-day visit to the park:
3-Day Itinerary for Arches National Park
Day 1: Overview and Iconic Highlights
Morning:
- Arrive early to make the most of cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Start at the Visitor Center: Pick up maps, check trail conditions, and get any necessary information from the rangers.
- Scenic Drive: Drive the Arches Scenic Drive, stopping at the main viewpoints and trailheads. This drive offers excellent views of the park’s key features.
- Balanced Rock: Stop here and do the short, easy Balanced Rock Trail (0.3 miles). This quick walk offers great views of the towering rock formation.
Afternoon:
The Windows Section: Hike the Windows Trail (1 mile) to see North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch. The trail is relatively easy, making it a perfect option for those looking for an accessible introduction to the park.
Lunch at a Picnic Area: Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in one of the park’s picnic areas like the Devil’s Garden Picnic Area.
Skyline Arch: Visit Skyline Arch, which is a short, easy hike (0.4 miles), and check out this stunning arch in a quiet area of the park.
Evening:
Delicate Arch Viewpoint: Head to the Delicate Arch Viewpoint for sunset views of this iconic arch from a distance.
Stargazing: As Arches is a designated Dark Sky Park, the night skies are breathtaking. If you’re interested, consider stargazing after sunset. You can view the stars from the Windows Section or Balanced Rock.
Day 2: Full Day of Hiking and Exploration
Morning:
- Delicate Arch Trail: Start the day early with a hike to Delicate Arch (3 miles round trip). This is one of the most famous arches and the trail offers a moderate challenge with stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Afternoon:
Lunch at a Picnic Area: After your hike, relax and have lunch in a picnic area or back at the Visitor Center.
Devil’s Garden Trail: In the afternoon, tackle the Devil’s Garden Trail (7.2 miles round trip). This trail will take you past several impressive arches, including Landscape Arch (the longest arch in the park) and other formations like Navajo Arch and Partition Arch. It’s a longer and more strenuous hike, so be sure to pace yourself.
Evening:
Fiery Furnace: If you have the energy and interest, sign up for a Fiery Furnace Ranger-Led Tour (requires a permit). This unique area consists of narrow passageways and rock formations that are best explored with a guide. It's a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path experience.
Dinner: Head to Moab, the town just outside the park, for dinner at one of the local restaurants like The Desert Bistro or The Moab Brewery.
Day 3: Exploring Less-Visited Areas and Relaxation
Morning:
- Tower Arch: Start your day with a visit to Tower Arch (3.5 miles round trip). This arch is located in the more remote Klondike Bluffs area of the park, and the hike offers beautiful views and a quieter experience away from the crowds.
- Double Arch: On your way back, stop at Double Arch (0.5 miles) for a short and easy hike to see two massive arches side by side.
Afternoon:
Lunch and Relax: Enjoy a relaxing lunch and take a short break.
Arches Scenic Drive (Part 2): Explore any viewpoints you missed on the first day. Consider driving Potash Road, a nearby scenic byway, for beautiful views of the park and the surrounding desert landscape.
Evening:
Evening Photography: Capture some of the park’s iconic landscapes at sunset, especially The Windows Section or Delicate Arch from the Viewpoint.
Stargazing: Once again, enjoy the night sky. The views are amazing from almost anywhere in the park.
5-Day Itinerary for Arches National Park
A 5-day visit allows you to explore the park at a slower pace, taking more time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Arches and enjoy some off-the-beaten-path areas.
Day 1: Overview and Iconic Landmarks (Same as Day 1 of 3-Day Itinerary)
- Spend the day exploring the main highlights, including Balanced Rock, The Windows, Skyline Arch, and Delicate Arch Viewpoint.
- Finish with stargazing.
Day 2: Extended Hiking and Exploration (Same as Day 2 of 3-Day Itinerary)
- Tackle Delicate Arch and Devil’s Garden Trail.
- Consider a guided Fiery Furnace tour if available.
- Stargaze in the evening.
Day 3: Remote Areas and Scenic Drives
- Morning: Explore Tower Arch and the Klondike Bluffs area. These are quieter and less-visited spots with great hiking opportunities.
- Afternoon: Take a scenic drive on Potash Road and explore other viewpoints along the Arches Scenic Drive.
- Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Moab, and stargaze at the Windows Section.
Day 4: More Remote Trails and Wildlife Watching
- Morning: Hike the Primitive Trail in Devil’s Garden to explore even more of the park’s remote arches. This is a 7.2-mile loop trail, so be sure to bring plenty of water.
- Afternoon: After lunch, relax or take a wildlife watching stroll along one of the park's shorter trails.
- Evening: Return to Moab for dinner and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Day 5: Final Exploration and Relaxation
- Morning: Spend the morning revisiting your favorite spots in the park or exploring new areas you missed. You could revisit Delicate Arch or The Windows for some final photos.
- Afternoon: Consider taking a scenic drive outside of the park, such as Highway 128, for spectacular views of the Colorado River and surrounding landscapes.
- Evening: Head to Moab for a relaxing dinner, or enjoy a final sunset in the park.
Final Tips:
- Weather: In the summer, start your days early to avoid the midday heat. In winter, be prepared for colder temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- Permits: For some activities, like the Fiery Furnace tour, you'll need a permit. Make sure to book in advance if you’re visiting during peak season.
- Pacing: If you’re visiting in the summer, pace yourself and take plenty of breaks to avoid heat exhaustion. Always carry enough water.
With a 3-day or 5-day itinerary, you'll be able to explore Arches National Park at a comfortable pace, seeing its most famous arches while also discovering some quieter, off-the-beaten-path gems.
