Discover a landscape of contrasting colors, land forms, and textures unlike any other. The park has over 2,000 natural stone arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. This red-rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations, refresh you with its trails, and inspire you with its sunsets.
From April 1 through October 31, 2023, visitors entering the park in a vehicle between 7 am and 4 pm will need to have already purchased a Timed Entry Ticket from Recreation.gov before arriving. One ticket is needed per vehicle. This fee is a Recreation.gov service charge, so it is not waived by any of the interagency passes.
Admits one private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all its occupants.
Admits one private, non-commercial motorcycle and its riders
Admits one individual with no car. Typically used for bicyclists, hikers, and pedestrians. Youth 15 and under are admitted free.
Rangers occasionally lead stargazing programs and events at parks throughout southeast Utah. Learn about what to expect and check out a schedule of stargazing events at Arches and Canyonlands national parks and Hovenweep and Natural Bridges national monuments. Even when formal programs are not offered, people are welcome to enjoy the parks after dark on their own.
Backpacking at Arches is allowed in designated sites only and requires a permit.
Overnight backcountry permit fees cost $7 per person.
Arches has no real "slot canyons" but does afford some unique on-rope opportunities.
Most climbing routes in the park require advanced techniques. Climbing is not allowed on any arches or certain named features, such as Balanced Rock.
Arches contains a variety of hiking trails, from easy/moderate to long and strenuous. Many trails use cairns (stacks of rocks) for markers and cross broad rock surfaces, requiring attention to follow. Learn how to Protect Yourself and Protect Your Park with hiking safety and Leave No Trace tips.
If you pay close attention, you can see close to two dozen arches from the comfort of your car.