Arches National Park Itinerary – 2 Days
Make the most out of your two-day visit to majestic Arches National Park in Utah. Discover sandstone arches, unique rock formations, and stunning vistas with this suggested 2-Day Arches National Park itinerary.
What is Arches National Park Known For
Arches National Park is located in the beautiful red-rock country of southeastern Utah.
It is one of Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks.
A unique place that offers visitors a chance to view more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches.
As well as a variety of other geological formations such as towers, balanced rocks, and spires.
The park is best known for its majestic arches, stunning hiking trails, and breathtaking landscapes.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the wonders that make this destination a must-visit site for nature enthusiasts.
Delicate Arch
Arguably the most iconic symbol of the park, Delicate Arch is a 65-foot-tall (20 meters) freestanding arch that attracts thousands of visitors year-round.
The hike to Delicate Arch is one of the park’s most famous trails, a 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) roundtrip journey that takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete.
Visitors are often left in awe at the sight of the spectacular arch, with its stunning backdrop of red canyon walls and the La Sal Mountains in the distance.
Landscape Arch
With a span of 306 feet (93 meters), Landscape Arch is one of the longest natural arches in the world.
Situated in the Devil’s Garden area of the park, Landscape Arch is visited via a relatively easy 1.6-mile (2.6-kilometer) roundtrip trail.
Over the years, small pieces of the arch have fallen. Making it an incredible sight to witness as it continues to slowly change over time.
Balanced Rock
Balanced Rock, an interesting geological formation, consists of a large boulder precariously balanced atop a slender pedestal.
The formation stands at a height of 128 feet (39 meters) and can be viewed from the park’s main road.
Experience it up close by taking a short 0.3-mile (0.5-kilometer) walk that circles the rock.
Fiery Furnace
The Fiery Furnace is a labyrinth of narrow sandstone canyons and fins that gives visitors a true sense of adventure.
Access to this area is limited and requires a ranger-guided tour or a hiking permit obtained in advance.
The tour offers an in-depth, 3-hour exploration of the Furnace.
Visitors required to squeeze through tight spaces and climb up sandstone fins.
Dark Sky Park
In 2015, Arches National Park was designated a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park.
Offering visitors an excellent opportunity to stargaze and view the night sky in all its glory.
The park hosts various events such as ranger-led stargazing programs. Full moon hikes to help visitors appreciate the celestial wonders above.
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Tips for visiting Arches National Park
- Plan ahead: Arches National Park is extremely popular, especially during peak season (spring and fall). Make sure to book accommodation and guided tours well in advance.
- Pack essentials: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and appropriate footwear for hiking. Weather can change quickly in the desert, so be prepared with layers.
- Leave No Trace: Help preserve the park’s natural beauty by following the Leave No Trace principles. Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and resist the temptation to touch or climb on delicate rock formations.
Embrace the splendor of Arches National Park with this action-packed two-day itinerary.
Allowing you to truly immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring landscape.
The memories you create here will undoubtedly last a lifetime.
And you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the natural world.
2 Day Itinerary for Exploring Arches National Park
Arches National Park in Utah is a stunning natural wonder known for its thousands of sandstone arches, unique rock formations, and breathtaking vistas.
A two-day visit will allow you to explore many of the park’s highlights.
Here’s a suggested itinerary for your trip:
Day 1:
Morning:
Visitor Center: Start your trip at the Arches National Park Visitor Center.
Here, you can get maps, information about trail conditions, and learn about the park’s geology and history.
Park Avenue Trail: Begin your exploration with the Park Avenue Trail.
It’s a relatively easy hike with incredible rock formations reminiscent of skyscrapers lining a narrow canyon.
The trail is 2 miles one way, but you can turn around whenever you like.
Lunch:
Picnic: Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park’s designated picnic areas.
The Courthouse Towers or the Windows Section is best.
Afternoon:
The Windows Section: Spend your afternoon exploring the Windows Section.
It includes iconic arches like the Turret Arch, Double Arch, and North Window.
You can do short hikes to each of these arches, and the views are fantastic.
Delicate Arch Viewpoint: In the late afternoon, head to the Delicate Arch Viewpoint.
While the best way to see Delicate Arch is on the hike, the viewpoint still offers a distant view of this famous arch.
Best done in the early morning or late evening as it is more strenuous.
Evening:
Sunset at Balanced Rock: Wrap up your day with a visit to Balanced Rock. It’s one of the park’s most iconic features.
The setting sun casts a warm glow on the rock formations, making it a fantastic spot for sunset photography.
Day 2:
Morning:
Sunrise at Delicate Arch: Start your day early with a hike to Delicate Arch.
Be prepared with water and suitable footwear.
The trail is about 3 miles round trip and can be strenuous.
Watching the sunrise through the arch is a memorable experience.
Breakfast:
Eat a hearty breakfast: After your hike, grab breakfast in Moab or enjoy a meal at your campsite if you’re staying in the park.
Late Morning:
Fiery Furnace Ranger-Led Tour (if available): If you can, secure a spot on a ranger-led tour of the Fiery Furnace.
It’s a unique opportunity to explore this maze-like area with its narrow canyons and fins. Make reservations in advance if possible.
Lunch:
Picnic or Eat in Moab: Have lunch either at a park picnic area or in Moab, depending on your preference.
Afternoon:
Devils Garden: Spend the rest of the day exploring the Devils Garden area, where you’ll find a variety of arches and rock formations.
Don’t miss Landscape Arch, Tunnel Arch, and the option to continue to more remote arches if you’re up for a longer hike.
Evening:
Stargazing: If you have clear skies, Arches National Park is an excellent place for stargazing.
The lack of light pollution makes for fantastic night skies. Consider bringing a telescope or binoculars for an even better experience.
Arches National Park Itinerary Conclusion
Finally, remember to check for park alerts and trail conditions before your visit.
Get any permits or make reservations for timed park entry or required for specific activities.
Enjoy your two days exploring the incredible beauty of Arches National Park!
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