Arches National Park
National park · Grand County ·
Park with 2,000+ sandstone arches, scenic drives, and stargazing
Park with 2,000+ sandstone arches, scenic drives, and stargazing
"Situated just outside the high-desert hub of Moab, this park has retained its legendary status since Edward Abbey’s ‘60s and ‘70s writings. Home to over 2,000 documented sandstone arches, it’s ideal for indulging your inner child—day-hiking the red rocks of Devils Garden, joining a dark sky tour to capitalize on early sunsets, or stoking adrenaline on a guided canyoneering tour. Don’t forget to pack layers, since this desert area can dip into freezing temperatures at night." - Emily Pennington
"I was told Utah has vowed to keep its parks accessible, and under the NPS contingency plan accessible areas such as roads, lookouts, trails, and open-air sites at Arches would generally remain open, though visitor centers would be closed and the park could be shut if access became a safety, health, or resource-protection issue." - Jessica Puckett
"I note that Utah has promised to keep Arches accessible during the shutdown as part of the state's effort to keep its 'Mighty Five' parks open to visitors despite the federal funding lapse." - Jessica Puckett
"I found the park to be a 76,000-acre sweep of desert packed with thousands of natural sandstone sculptures just minutes from Moab; Arches National Park draws around 1.5 million visitors a year and offers hiking, biking, climbing, canyoneering, and horseback riding. The park can be experienced at any pace—from adrenaline-filled adventures to slow moments of awe—and it runs a timed-entry system during peak months (7 a.m. to 4 p.m.) while remaining open 24 hours, so plan ahead. Prepare for dry heat by drinking water and packing salty snacks, be mindful of wildfire season in summer and fall, and consider visiting in spring or autumn for milder temps and fewer crowds; winter is quieter but colder with possible icy trails." - Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion is a travel journalist and photographer covering culture and adventure for Travel + Leisure Outside, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"This park operates a timed-entry reservation program during peak hours to reduce traffic and parking congestion; visitors typically need to reserve an entry window weeks to months in advance (or sometimes the day before), though early-morning, evening, or nighttime visits can often avoid the restriction. Because staffing and services can be limited, check the park website or app for real-time updates, arrive self-sufficient with water and supplies, and be flexible with timing." - Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion Stephanie Vermillion is a travel journalist and photographer covering culture and adventure for Travel + Leisure Outside, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines