Arches
Arches National Park near Moab, Utah, is famous for its over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, dramatic desert landscapes, and accessible trail short-hikes. Visitors come to see landmarks like Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and The Windows. The park is a gateway for day hikes, photography, and getting a sense of the high desert climate.
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Arches
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Southwest United States |
| Subregion | Colorado Plateau |
| Country | United States |
| State | Utah |
| County | Grand County |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 38.68 |
| Longitude | -109.57 |
| Maps |
12:58 PM LOCAL TIMEArches National Park is a compact but visually stunning landscape of massive sandstone fins and over 2,000** natural arches that have been carved over millennia from the Entrada and Navajo sandstone formations. The park's signature structures — such as Delicate Arch, Rainbow Bridge, and The Windows — are iconic symbols of southwestern Utah. Trails range from **short walks** (like to the courtyard at The Windows) to **more strenuous hikes** (like descent to Landscape Arch and the Devils Garden area). The park's high desert setting means **extreme temperature swings** and low precipitation, which influences its geology, vegetation, and visiting seasons. Sunrise and late afternoon provide the best light for dramatic photos; night skies are generally *very* clear for stargazing. Visitors should prepare for **minimal shade, seasonal closures**, and **desert wildlife** including *coyotes* and *desert boles*. Arches__ acts as both a day-use destination and a starting point for longer multi-day routes into the surrounding area.
Where to Stay
Moab's lodging scene centers on flexible bases for epic desert adventures around Arches National Park and the surrounding canyons.
Downtown Moab sits on Main Street with easy access to shops, restaurants, and tours; you're a short drive to Arches National Park and the surrounding canyons.
Moab Riverside District sits along the Colorado River with riverfront lodging and easy shuttles to Arches National Park; enjoy sunset views and river activities.
East Moab and nearby Spanish Valley offer quieter options and more affordable stays while staying within a short drive to Arches National Park.
Moab North Gateway places you near the north entrance to Arches National Park and the drives toward the Delicate Arch area.
Map Resources
Arches National Park Official Map
Official Park Map for Arches National Park showing trails, roads, and facilities.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:46 AM