Arches National Park is among the most awe-inspiring destinations in the American Southwest. Located just five miles north of Moab, this natural wonderland captivates visitors with more than 2,000 stone arches, towering fins, massive balanced rocks, and dramatic desert landscapes. Whether it’s your first visit or returning to a beloved favorite, Arches National Park offers a timeless connection to the earth’s artistry.
About Arches National Park
Spanning over 76,000 acres, Arches National Park is a place of surreal beauty and geological wonder. Iconic formations like Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and the Windows showcase the raw power of erosion and time. The park’s fiery red sandstone formations contrast strikingly with vivid blue skies and snow-capped La Sal Mountains in the distance, creating scenes that feel otherworldly yet deeply grounding.
Open year-round, Arches National Park welcomes travelers to witness its sculpted terrain in all seasons. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and vibrant colors, while winter reveals a serene, snow-dusted solitude. Summer brings golden sunsets and the shimmer of starlight across the desert floor.
Arches National Park History
Long before it became a national park, this land was home to many ancestral peoples of the Hopi, Paiute, Navajo, Rosebud Sioux, Ute, and Zuni tribes, some of whom left behind rock art and remnants of dwellings. In the early 20th century, travelers and locals advocated for preserving the area’s unique features, leading to the creation of Arches National Monument in 1929. It achieved national park status in 1971.
Today, Arches stands as a protected landscape of both cultural and geological significance—a place where the passage of time is visible in every curve and crevice of its formations.
Hiking
Arches offers a wide variety of hiking trails suited for all experience levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk or a rugged trek, each trail promises its own reward. Here are a few noteworthy hikes within the park:
- Delicate Arch Trail (3.2 miles round-trip): Perhaps the park’s most famous landmark, this moderately strenuous hike leads to a breathtaking view of the 60-foot-tall freestanding arch.
- Landscape Arch Trail (1.8 miles round-trip): A relatively easy walk in the Devil’s Garden area brings you to the longest natural arch span in the world.
- The Windows Section: Short trails wind through an area of the park with the largest concentration of arches, and it is one of the most scenic locations in the park.
Always bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and start early to enjoy the tranquility of the trails.
Commercial Tours
For those seeking deeper insight or ease of access, a variety of commercial tours operate within Arches National Park and surrounding areas. Options include:
- Guided hiking excursions: Learn about the park’s geology, ecology, and history from expert naturalists.
- Photography tours: Capture sunrise or golden hour magic with the guidance of a local professional.
- Off-road adventures: Explore more remote sections surrounding the park with knowledgeable guides who can safely guide while minimizing environmental impact.
- River rafting: See the Moab area from the water by rafting or kayaking down the Colorado River, or the nearby Green River in Canyonlands National Park.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, education, or unforgettable views, these tours offer a thoughtful way to experience the park’s grandeur.
Own or Book Your Casita Today
After a day exploring Arches National Park, return to a place that mirrors the beauty and peace of the land itself. Lionsback Resort offers luxury casitas nestled at the edge of the wild—where comfort meets adventure.
Wake to red rock vistas, unwind beneath a sky full of stars, and let each moment reconnect you to what matters most. Contact us today to own or book your casita and make Lionsback your home base for all that Moab has to offer.
