Arches National Park Travel Guide

Your complete Arches National Park Travel Guide for hiking, camping, lodging, food, family fun, pet services, shops, and local activities. From sunrise on red‑rock fins to golden hour at Delicate Arch, Arches delivers otherworldly stone bridges, star‑packed skies, and road‑trip magic just minutes from downtown Moab.

Contents

Hiking in Arches National Park

From quick window loops to full‑day desert adventures, Arches’ trails weave through sandstone fins, slot‑like corridors, and towering arches that glow at dawn and burn bright at sunset.

Delicate Arch Trail – Iconic hike across slickrock slabs to Utah’s most photographed arch, with wide desert vistas and a dramatic final traverse along a sandstone ledge.(Wolfe Ranch Area)
    Length: 3.2 miles round trip
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous (sun & exposure)
    More Info

Devils Garden Loop to Double O Arch (via Landscape Arch) – Signature Arches sampler: slender Landscape Arch, fins, scrambles, and a dramatic out-and-back to Double O along airy slickrock ridges.(Devils Garden)
    Length: 7.8 miles loop (with spurs)
    Type: Loop
    Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous (exposure, route-finding)
    More Info

Landscape Arch Trail – Easy stroll along packed sand to one of the world’s longest natural rock spans; morning light makes the ribbon‑thin arch glow.(Devils Garden)
    Length: 1.9 miles round trip
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Easy
    More Info

The Windows & Turret Arch – Family‑friendly loop through North & South Window and Turret Arch; great for golden hour and playful photo frames through the rock.(Windows Section)
    Length: 1.2 miles loop
    Type: Loop
    Difficulty: Easy
    More Info

Double Arch – Short, sandy path to twin vaults curving into the sky; step beneath for soaring perspectives and cool shade on hot days.(Windows Section)
    Length: 0.6 miles round trip
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Easy
    More Info

Park Avenue – Stroll the base of a “stone skyline” of buttresses and towers; afternoon light paints the corridor in deep desert color.(Park Avenue Trailhead)
    Length: 2.0 miles out-and-back (shuttle option)
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (stairs)
    More Info

Sand Dune Arch to Broken Arch – Kid‑favorite slot of cool sand beneath fins to Sand Dune Arch, then a gentle cross‑country wander to photogenic Broken Arch.(Devils Garden Area)
    Length: 2.0–2.7 miles round trip
    Type: Out-and-back/partial loop
    Difficulty: Easy
    More Info

Balanced Rock Loop – A quick loop encircling Arches’ gravity‑defying boulder; perfect at sunset when La Sal Mountains glow behind the formation.(Balanced Rock)
    Length: 0.3 miles loop
    Type: Loop
    Difficulty: Easy/Accessible
    More Info

Tower Arch (Klondike Bluffs) – Quieter backcountry feel with sandy washes, short scrambles, and a massive arch tucked among remote fins.(Klondike Bluffs)
    Length: 3.4 miles round trip (via main trailhead)
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Moderate (sand & route-finding)
    More Info

Fiery Furnace (Ranger-led or Permit) – A maze of fins and slots requiring careful navigation and scrambling; choose a guided tour or secure a self‑guided permit.(Fiery Furnace)
    Length: ~2.0 miles exploratory
    Type: Route (not a signed trail)
    Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous (scrambling, exposure)
    More Info

Courthouse Wash Rock Art (Lower) – Easy stroll to a large Ancestral Puebloan rock art panel; go at dawn or dusk for best viewing and cooler temps.(Near Moab Entrance)
    Length: 1.0 miles round trip
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Easy
    More Info

Backpacking in Arches National Park

Arches doesn’t offer traditional backcountry campsites, but world‑class overnight trips await just beyond the park in Canyonlands and surrounding BLM wilderness—think slickrock mesas, hidden springs, and star‑soaked desert nights.

Chesler Park–Elephant Canyon Loop (Canyonlands, Needles) – Classic red‑rock backpack linking spires, grassy meadows, and sculpted corridors with camps in designated zones.(~75 min S of Arches)
    Length: 11–16 miles loop (options)
    Type: Loop
    Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous
    More Info

Salt Creek Canyon (Canyonlands, Needles) – Multi‑day journey past arches, ancestral dwellings, rock art, and cottonwood‑lined oases in a broad desert canyon.(Needles District)
    Length: 15–25+ miles point‑to‑point
    Type: One‑way/Route
    Difficulty: Strenuous (water management)
    More Info

Druid Arch Overnight (Canyonlands, Needles) – Camp in designated sites along Elephant Canyon and day‑hike to the cathedral‑like Druid Arch for sunrise shadows and soaring scale.(Needles District)
    Length: 10–12 miles out-and-back
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous
    More Info

Devils Pocket & Joint Trail (Canyonlands, Needles) – Backpack through slot‑like joints and wildflower meadows to quiet camps tucked beneath spires.(Needles District)
    Length: 12–16 miles loop
    Type: Loop
    Difficulty: Moderate
    More Info

Whiterim/Gooseneck Overlooks Overnights (Canyonlands, Island in the Sky) – Backpack from mesa edges to camps with endless Green/Colorado river views (permit zones, limited water).(Island in the Sky)
    Length: 8–20 miles (varies by zone)
    Type: Out-and-back/Routes
    Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous
    More Info

Halls Creek Narrows (Capitol Reef region, advanced) – Remote desert narrows, towering walls, and solitude for experienced backpackers with solid navigation and water planning.(~2.5–3 hrs W)
    Length: 22–24 miles out-and-back
    Type: Out-and-back
    Difficulty: Strenuous/Remote
    More Info

Dark Canyon Wilderness (BLM) – Big‑wall canyon country with pour‑offs, cottonwoods, and silence; choose loops/pack‑rafts with tough access roads.(SE Utah backcountry)
    Length: 15–40+ miles routes
    Type: Routes/Loop options
    Difficulty: Strenuous/Remote
    More Info

Labyrinth Canyon (Green River, backpack/packraft) – Combine river miles and bench hikes among buttes and side canyons; shuttle logistics required.(NW of Moab)
    Length: 20–50+ miles (mixed)
    Type: Point‑to‑point
    Difficulty: Moderate/Strenuous (self‑support)
    More Info

Beef Basin–Indian Creek Zone (BLM) – Vast mesas and ruins country south of Canyonlands with primitive routes, big views, and true desert solitude.(South of Needles)
    Length: 15–30+ miles routes
    Type: Routes/Loop options
    Difficulty: Strenuous/Remote
    More Info

Grand Gulch Primitive Area (Bears Ears) – Backpack among alcoves, rock art, and ancient dwellings in a labyrinth of canyons—permits and Leave No Trace are essential.(SE Utah)
    Length: 20–50+ miles routes
    Type: Routes/Point‑to‑point
    Difficulty: Strenuous/Remote
    More Info

Camping in Arches National Park

Camp beneath a galaxy of stars at Arches’ lone campground, where sandstone fins glow at sunrise and trailheads sit just minutes from your site.

Devils Garden Campground – Scenic camps tucked among juniper, pinyon, and sandstone fins at the end of the park road; unbeatable access to Devils Garden trails and dark skies.(In‑park)
    Type: Tent & RV (no hookups)
    Facilities: Potable water (seasonal), flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings; amphitheater; dump station nearby in Moab
    Fee: $$
    Reservations
    More Info

Camping outside Arches National Park

When Devils Garden fills, Moab’s mix of BLM campgrounds, state‑park sites, and full‑service RV resorts gives you tons of options within a short, scenic drive of Arches.

Goose Island Campground (BLM) – Cottonwood‑shaded sites along the Colorado River with postcard views of Castle Valley; perfect for sunrise paddles and quick access to town. (~4 miles from Arches entrance, North of Moab on UT‑128)
    Type: Tent & Small RV (no hookups)
    Facilities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings
    Fee: $–$$
    More Info

Granstaff Campground (BLM) – Intimate riverside loop near the Grandstaff Canyon trail to Morning Glory Bridge; close to Moab but feels wild. (~6 miles, UT‑128 (East))
    Type: Tent & Small RV (no hookups)
    Facilities: Vault toilets, tables, fire rings
    Fee: $–$$
    More Info

Big Bend Campground (BLM) – River bends, beachy launches, and wide desert views; great for families and evening stargazing. (~8 miles, UT‑128 (East))
    Type: Tent & Small RV (no hookups)
    Facilities: Vault toilets, tables, fire rings
    Fee: $–$$
    More Info

Gold Bar Campground (BLM) – Basecamp for Corona Arch and Potash Road rock art/dinosaur tracks; sunsets glow off the cliffs. (~10 miles, Potash Rd (West))
    Type: Tent & Small RV (no hookups)
    Facilities: Vault toilets, tables, fire rings
    Fee: $–$$
    More Info

Sand Flats Recreation Area (multiple loops) – Famous for Slickrock Bike Trail and 4×4 routes; expansive camping zones with sunrise mesa views. (~7–12 miles, SE of Moab)
    Type: Tent & RV (no hookups)
    Facilities: Vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings; fee booth
    Fee: $–$$
    More Info

Ken’s Lake Campground (BLM) – Lakeside desert scenes with Mount Peale views; close to waterfalls on Mill Creek South Fork after rains. (~12 miles, South of Moab)
    Type: Tent & Small RV (some longer pads)
    Facilities: Vault toilets, tables, fire rings
    Fee: $–$$
    More Info

Dead Horse Point State Park (Kayenta & Wingate) – Dark‑sky approved rim‑top sites and yurts with jaw‑dropping canyon views over the Colorado River. (~35 minutes, NW of Arches)
    Type: Tent, RV & Yurts (some hookups)
    Facilities: Water, restrooms/showers, dump station (seasonal)
    Fee: $$–$$$
    More Info

Moab Valley RV Resort (Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway) – Full‑service resort with pool, cabins, and bike wash—easy base close to Arches. (~5 miles, North Moab)
    Type: RV Sites, Cabins, Tents (hookups available)
    Facilities: Hookups, Wi‑Fi, pool, laundry, store
    Fee: $$–$$$
    More Info

Portal RV Resort – Premium RV sites and casitas with views of the Portal and easy access to Moab amenities. (~6 miles, North Moab)
    Type: RV (full hookups), Vacation Homes
    Facilities: Pool, laundry, Wi‑Fi, clubhouse
    Fee: $$–$$$
    More Info

Up The Creek Campground (Walk‑in Tents) – Leafy, car‑free tent sites right in town; stroll to restaurants, then sleep under cottonwoods. (~5 miles, Downtown Moab)
    Type: Tent (walk‑in)
    Facilities: Restrooms, hot showers, sinks, Wi‑Fi
    Fee: $$
    More Info

Places to Eat in Arches National Park

Fuel desert adventures with Moab’s mix of artisan bakeries, food trucks, riverside grills, and date‑night dining—many with patios perfect for red‑rock sunsets.

Desert Bistro – Intimate, chef‑driven Southwestern cuisine with house‑baked breads, wild game, and a deep wine list—ideal for celebratory nights. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Fine Dining / New American
    Cost: $$$
    More Info

Moab Brewery – Local institution pouring award‑winning ales with hearty burgers, pastas, and pub fare; great post‑hike hangout. (South Moab)
    Type: Brewery / American
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Quesadilla Mobilla – Fan‑favorite food truck slinging giant grilled quesadillas packed with slow‑cooked meats and roasted veggies. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Food Truck / Mexican‑inspired
    Cost: $–$$
    More Info

Antica Forma – Neapolitan pizza blistered in a wood‑fired oven with bright salads and Italian small plates. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Italian / Pizzeria
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Miguel’s Baja Grill – Fresh‑citrus margaritas and Baja‑style tacos with house salsas; lively patio on warm nights. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Mexican
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Thai Bella – Fragrant curries, wok classics, and crisp spring rolls; a reliable comfort‑food stop after a big day. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Thai
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Sabaku Sushi – Creative rolls and fresh nigiri in the desert—yes, really—plus sake flights and seasonal specials. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Sushi / Japanese
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Doughbird – Small‑batch donuts, fried chicken sandwiches, and cold brew—breakfast to go before you hit the trail. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Bakery / Quick Bites
    Cost: $–$$
    More Info

Josie Wyatt’s Grille – Wood‑grilled steaks, chops, and cocktails in a modern lodge setting at Hoodoo Moab. (Downtown/Hotel District)
    Type: Steakhouse / American
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Sunset Grill – Historic hilltop home of a uranium pioneer turned restaurant; panoramic views over Moab at dusk. (North Hills above Moab)
    Type: American / Seafood & Steaks
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Places to Stay in Arches National Park

Whether you want boutique comfort in town or a riverside retreat under towering cliffs, Moab lodgings keep you close to Arches and the region’s red‑rock playgrounds.

Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton – Stylish desert‑modern hotel with a resort pool, full spa, and on‑site steakhouse—walkable to downtown dining. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Hotel / Resort
    Cost: $$$–$$$$
    More Info

Red Cliffs Lodge – Rustic‑elegant suites and cabins on a working ranch with a small film museum, winery, and epic river/mesa views. (Castle Valley / UT‑128)
    Type: Lodge / Cabin Suites
    Cost: $$$
    More Info

Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa – Luxury hideaway on the Colorado River with spa treatments, farm‑to‑table dining, and sunrise horseback rides. (Castle Valley / UT‑128)
    Type: Luxury Resort
    Cost: $$$$
    More Info

Hyatt Place Moab – Modern rooms, big breakfast, and a pool complex; quick hop to Arches’ entrance. (North Moab)
    Type: Hotel
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

SpringHill Suites & Fairfield Inn (Moab) – Side‑by‑side Marriott properties with splash zones and canyon views along the parkway. (North Moab)
    Type: Hotel
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Element Moab – Extended‑stay comfort with kitchenettes and modern design, ideal for longer basecamps. (North Moab)
    Type: Hotel / Extended Stay
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

The Gonzo Inn – Colorful, retro‑chic boutique with balconies and a relaxed pool courtyard steps from Main Street eats. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Boutique Hotel
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Sunflower Hill Inn – Beloved B&B with gardens, porches, and a hearty homemade breakfast; quiet yet central. (Downtown Moab)
    Type: Bed & Breakfast
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Under Canvas Moab – Stargaze from safari‑style tents with comfy beds, fire pits, and canyon breezes—glamping done right. (North of Moab)
    Type: Glamping / Safari Tents
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Field Station Moab – Adventure‑centric hotel with gear library, trail beta, and community vibes geared to explorers. (South Moab)
    Type: Adventure Hotel
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Around Town - Things to do in Arches National Park

Beyond the arches, Moab buzzes with river trips, sky‑high ziplines, scenic flights, dinosaur discoveries, and sunset viewpoints that keep the stoke high between hikes.

Colorado River Rafting – Half‑day to full‑day floats through red‑rock canyons; perfect for families or big‑splash whitewater days. (Moab Outfitters)
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Hell’s Revenge 4×4 Tours – Ride fins and steep slickrock with expert drivers on Moab’s most famous off‑road route; huge views, bigger grins. (Sand Flats Area)
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Moab Giants Dinosaur Park – Life‑size dinos, 3D theater, and a tracksite trail make this a hit with kids and paleo‑curious adults. (North of Moab)
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Redtail Air Scenic Flights – Aerial tours over Arches, Canyonlands, and the Colorado River—epic for photographers. (CNY Airport)
    Cost: $$$
    More Info

Slickrock Bike Trail (Practice Loop) – Test your legs on grippy sandstone rollers with endless views; classic Moab ride. (Sand Flats Recreation Area)
    Cost: $ (rider fee)
    More Info

Corona Arch Hike – Giant free‑standing arch just outside the park with cables/steps and sunset drama over the river. (Potash Road)
    Cost: Free–$ (parking)
    More Info

Dead Horse Point State Park – Canyon‑top overlooks, easy rim trails, and world‑class night skies just 35 minutes from Arches. (NW of Arches)
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Moab Museum – Bite‑size exhibits on Indigenous history, pioneer life, and the uranium boom that built modern Moab. (Downtown)
    Cost: $–$$
    More Info

Potash Road Petroglyphs & Tracks – Drive‑by panels and dinosaur footprints along a stunning river canyon; great at dusk. (Potash Rd)
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Raven’s Rim Zip Line – Sunset zip‑line course high above Moab with jeep approach and glass‑sky bridges. (East Moab)
    Cost: $$$
    More Info

For the Kids - Things for kids in Arches National Park

Arches and Moab make desert fun for little explorers—think junior ranger stamps, fossil hunts, sandy arches, river floats, and stargazing that feels like magic.

Junior Ranger Program (Arches) – Pick up an activity book, explore the park, and earn your badge with rangers at the visitor center. (Arches Visitor Center)
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Moab Giants Dinosaur Park – Walk among life‑size dinosaurs, dig in the sandbox, and see real tracks on the trail. (North Moab)
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Sand Dune Arch – A shady, sand‑filled slot to a petite arch—kids love the soft “desert sandbox.” (Devils Garden Area)
    Cost: Park entry
    More Info

Colorado River Scenic Float – Calm‑water rafting with splashy fun and canyon walls towering overhead. (Moab Outfitters)
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Slickrock Practice Loop (Family Ride) – Short, rolling bike loop on grippy slickrock for confident kids and parents. (Sand Flats)
    Cost: $ (rider fee)
    More Info

Swanny City Park – Playground, splash pad (seasonal), and shady lawns downtown for easy picnic time. (Downtown Moab)
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Rotary Park & Musical Instruments – Outdoor xylophones, drums, and shady paths for creative play. (SE Moab)
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Canyonlands by Night Boat Show – Evening river cruise with lights and narration—kids love seeing canyon walls glow. (Colorado River)
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Copper Ridge Dinosaur Trackway – Short hike to well‑preserved dino tracks; bring water and hats. (North of Moab)
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center – Pools, slides, and indoor fun for hot afternoons or rest days. (Downtown Moab)
    Cost: $–$$
    More Info

For the Pets in Arches National Park

Bring your best friend to Moab—pet services, boarding, and supply shops keep tails wagging while you explore pet‑restricted areas inside the park.

Moab Veterinary Clinic – Full‑service small‑animal care including wellness exams, diagnostics, and urgent needs while traveling. (Moab)
    Type: Veterinary Clinic
    Cost: $$ (varies by service)
    More Info

Mill Creek Animal Hospital – Preventative care, dental, surgery, and compassionate staff for on‑the‑road pet needs. (Moab)
    Type: Veterinary Clinic
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

The Moab BARKery – Specialty pet supply shop with quality foods, toys, treats, and local advice. (Downtown)
    Type: Pet Supply
    Cost: $–$$
    More Info

Rim to Rim Dog Boarding – Clean kennels, play yards, and attentive care while you hike non‑pet trails. (Moab Area)
    Type: Boarding & Daycare
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Humble Paws Grooming – Bathing and full‑service grooming to de‑dust the desert dog. (Moab)
    Type: Grooming
    Cost: $$
    More Info

Moab Off‑Leash Dog Park (Otho Natural Area) – Big fenced runs for fetch and social time near town trails. (Moab)
    Type: Dog Park
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Ken’s Lake Leash‑friendly Loops – Casual lakeside strolls with mountain views (follow posted pet rules). (South of Moab)
    Type: Pet‑friendly Walks
    Cost: $–$$ (camp/parking fees may apply)
    More Info

Pet‑Friendly Patios (Downtown) – Many Moab cafes allow pups on patios—ask staff and bring water. (Main Street)
    Type: Dining with Dogs
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Dog‑Safe Desert Tips (Arches) – Pets are allowed only in developed areas/roads—never on trails; protect paws from hot rock. (Arches Policy)
    Type: Park Rules
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Emergency Vet Options (Regional) – Have a plan for after‑hours care in Grand Junction/Spanish Fork if needed. (After‑hours)
    Type: Emergency Care Info
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Gifts & Keepsakes - Things to remember Arches National Park

From handcrafted desert art to fossil curios and classic park prints, Moab’s shops make it easy to bring a piece of red‑rock country home.


Boondockers Cafe (Online/Etsy) – Handcrafted National Park–inspired gifts, stickers, coasters, and decor featuring Arches and all 63 U.S. National Parks. (Online)
    Type: Online / Handmade Goods
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Moab Made – Artist‑run collective with jewelry, ceramics, prints, and gifts crafted by local makers. (Downtown)
    Type: Artisan Collective
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Back of Beyond Books – Beloved indie bookstore featuring Southwest history, field guides, and maps—great gifts for trail lovers. (Downtown)
    Type: Bookstore
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Moab Rock Shop – Fossils, minerals, and kid‑approved treasures; a classic stop for geology fans. (North Main)
    Type: Rock & Fossil Shop
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Hogan Trading Company – Southwestern art, jewelry, and home decor with a deep regional vibe. (Downtown)
    Type: Native & Western Arts
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Gearheads Outdoor Store – Trail‑ready gifts: hydration, gadgets, stickers, maps—plus free filtered water fill‑up. (Downtown)
    Type: Outdoor Shop
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Desert Thread – Colorful yarns, notions, and fiber art from the high desert—perfect creative souvenirs. (Downtown)
    Type: Yarn & Fiber Arts
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Tom Till Gallery – Iconic Southwest landscape photography—gallery prints that capture Arches’ glow. (Downtown)
    Type: Photography Gallery
    Cost: $$–$$$$
    More Info

Moab Museum Shop – Thoughtful gifts rooted in local history, Indigenous arts, and place‑based learning. (Downtown)
    Type: Museum Store
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Made in Moab (Farmers/Markets) – Seasonal markets with small‑batch foods, art, and handmade goods from local vendors. (Various)
    Type: Market / Local Makers
    Cost: $–$$$
    More Info

Trip Planning Tips for Arches National Park

Dial in a smooth Arches trip with seasonal timing, permits, and desert‑smart strategies so you spend more time under arches and less time in lines.

Best Time to Visit – Spring (Apr–May) and fall (Sep–Oct) bring mild temps, wildflowers, and golden light; winter is quiet with icy mornings and crystal skies.
    Tip: Start at dawn for parking and cooler hikes; save overlooks for midday.

Entrance Fee – $30 per vehicle (7 days), $15 per person on foot/bike; America the Beautiful Pass valid here.
    Tip: Buy passes online in advance to speed entry.

Getting Around – No park shuttle; parking fills fast at Delicate Arch/Windows/Devils Garden.
    Tip: Go early or late; stack short walks midday; obey roadside parking signs to protect cryptobiotic soil.

Permits & Reservations – Fiery Furnace requires a ranger tour or self‑guided permit; timed‑entry reservations have been used seasonally in recent years—check current rules.
    Tip: If timed entry returns, book the first hour of the day for the coolest temps and emptiest lots.

Weather – Summer heat regularly exceeds 95–105°F; storms can produce flash floods and lightning.
    Tip: Carry 3–4 liters per person, wide‑brim hat, sun sleeves, and salty snacks; never enter drainages in thunderstorms.

Pets – Allowed only in campgrounds, parking areas, and paved roads—no trails or overlooks beyond pavement.
    Tip: Book Moab boarding/daycare on hike days; asphalt and slickrock can burn paws.

Photography – Dawn at Park Avenue/Windows and sunset at Delicate or Balanced Rock are crowd‑pleasers.
    Tip: Bring a headlamp for blue‑hour hikes and a tripod for Milky Way nights (new moon).

Local Events in Arches National Park

Moab’s event calendar keeps the vibe buzzing—think Jeep safaris, music echoing off canyon walls, bike festivals, and fall art weeks that pair perfectly with Arches adventures.

Easter Jeep Safari – Iconic weeklong celebration of 4×4 culture with guided trail runs and vendor shows across Moab’s famous routes.
    Season: March/April (Easter week)
    Location: Moab & Surrounding Trails
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Canyonlands Half Marathon & 5‑Mile – Scenic riverside run along the Colorado with red‑rock canyon walls as your backdrop.
    Season: March
    Location: UT‑128 / Colorado River Corridor
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Slim & Knobby’s Skinny Tire Festival – Road‑cycling festival showcasing Moab’s dreamiest pavement loops and viewpoints.
    Season: March
    Location: Moab Area Scenic Roads
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Moab Music Festival – Chamber, jazz, and world music performed in natural “concert halls” like river canyons and grottoes.
    Season: Late Aug–Sept
    Location: Moab & Colorado River
    Cost: $$–$$$$
    More Info

Plein Air Moab / Red Rocks Arts Festival – Painters capture desert light all week with demos, quick‑draws, and gallery shows.
    Season: October
    Location: Downtown & Surroundings
    Cost: Free–$$
    More Info

Moab Folk Festival – Intimate roots and Americana performances with workshops and community jams.
    Season: November
    Location: Moab Venues
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Moab Trail Marathon / Half / 5K – Rugged desert singletrack racing among fins and canyons—spectacular courses, serious fun.
    Season: November
    Location: Moab Area Trails
    Cost: $$–$$$
    More Info

Scots on the Rocks Celtic Festival – Pipes, drums, dancing, and games with a red‑rock backdrop.
    Season: Fall (Nov)
    Location: Spanish Valley
    Cost: $–$$
    More Info

Moab Arts ArtWalk – Monthly evenings of gallery hops and receptions downtown.
    Season: Spring–Fall (monthly)
    Location: Downtown Galleries
    Cost: Free
    More Info

Christmas Electric Light Parade – Festive floats and holiday cheer lighting up Main Street.
    Season: Early December
    Location: Downtown Moab
    Cost: Free
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